Modeling of a prestressed concrete bridge with 3D finite elements for structural health monitoring using model updating techniques

This paper presents a linear finite element model for a prestressed concrete beam, which was part of a real bridge. Static and dynamic tests were carried out and compared to the numerical simulation responses. A solid finite element model was created including the prestressed concrete beam, permanent dead load, two additional live loads and a shaker. A well planned finite element model is very important for later detection and localization of damage. Therefore, a mapped mesh was used to define so-called ‘slices’, which enables describing stiffness changes, e.g. damage. The model validation was performed by comparing simulated results to measured responses in the healthy state of the beam. After validation of the reference model, it is possible to modify the bending stiffness along the longitudinal axis of the beam by modifying Young’s moduli of different slices to adapt for the effect of damage.