Work

Modal-superposition-based response spectrum method for calculating pier responses under vehicle collisions

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Although studies have examined vehicle impact on bridge piers and the resulting pier responses, no mature simplified method yet exists for calculating the dynamic response of piers under vehicle impact. This paper establishes an analytical model for pier responses under a half-sine impact load simulating the dominant component of vehicle-impact loading, investigates key parameters including the frequency ratio and offset ratio, and examines the critical section for impact-resistant design, pier modal response characteristics, and the applicability of the equivalent SDOF model. Results show that the impulsive nature of vehicle impact and the asymmetric loading location along the pier height make higher-order modes significantly influence responses, so simplifying the pier as an equivalent SDOF model may cause large errors. Therefore, a modal-superposition-based response spectrum method is proposed to combine higher-order modal responses for rapid and accurate prediction of pier responses, providing a theoretical method for bridge impact-resistant design and safety assessment.

Source: Developments in the Built Environment

DOI: 10.1016/j.dibe.2026.101004

Authors: Daogang Ou, Lin Chen, Hao Wu, Hongxin Sun, Yong Lu

Institutions: Hunan University of Science and Technology, Tongji University, University of Edinburgh

Language: English

Topic: Seismic Performance and Analysis

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,230