General Information
Figure 1 shows a pedestrian suspension bridge.
| Type | Three-span suspension bridge |
| Main span | ≅ 60 m |
| Deck width | ≅ 1.5 m |
| Deck width to main span ratio | ≅ 1:40 |
| Pylon | Reinforced concrete with two steel cantilever lateral trusses |
| Girder | Steel half-through truss |
Lateral Cables and Main Span Range
Figure 2 shows a schematic three-dimensional view of the bridge.
There are two lateral cables; they are connected to the anchorages (1), the steel columns (A and B), the free ends of the cantilever lateral trusses (2), and the girders in the main span mid-span region (3). The steel columns are only installed on shore 1. Figure 3 shows a lateral cable between the anchorage (1) and the cantilever lateral truss (2) on shore 1.
The columns are made of circular hollow sections. Column A is based on the ground, while column B is based on the top of a reinforced concrete yard wall. The lateral cable is horizontally deviated (angle α) on column B. Figure 4 shows a column to lateral cable connection.
The top end of the column has a V-notch, and the lateral cable passes through it. Figure 5 shows a lateral cable between the cantilever lateral truss and the main span mid-span region viewed from shore 1.
The lateral cable is sagging.
How efficient are the above shown lateral cables?
Main Cable Anchorage
Figure 6 shows a main cable anchorage.
The connection consists of two embedded anchor rods (joined by a pin) and a U-shaped flat bar. The back connection of the U-shaped flat bar on shore 1 differs from shore 2, as shown in figures 7 and 8, respectively.
The U-shaped flat bar connects the back side of the anchor block by two welded stud bolts, a U-section, and four nuts.
In contrast to shore 1, the U-section passes through the anchor block instead of connecting its back side.
What is the purpose of the U-shaped flat bars?