General Information

Figure 1 shows a suspension bridge that is used by motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians.

Suspension bridge.
Suspension bridge over a river
Type Single-span suspension bridge
Main span ≅ 140 m
Deck width ≅ 2 m
Deck width to main span ratio ≅ 1:70
Pylon Reinforced concrete
Girder Timber transverse beam

Hanger Cable to Timber Girder Connection

Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-section of the bridge.

Cross-section.
Cross-section in the main span region

A single hanger cable runs from main cable 1 to main cable 2 via the timber girder bottom side. The hanger cable passes through the timber girder through two vertical holes. The forces are transferred by direct (cable to timber girder) contact. Figure 3 shows a hanger cable to timber girder connection viewed from below.

Hanger cable to timber girder connection.
Connection between hanger cable and timber girder

Figure 4 shows a further connection in the vertical hole region.

Hanger cable to timber girder connection.
Connection between hanger cable and timber girder
  • What are some advantages and disadvantages of the above shown connection?
    What are other possible solutions?