Modeling and parametric analysis of arch bridge with transfer matrix method

As a classic hybrid bridge, arch bridge is widely used in bridge engineering, which utilizes effectively the mechanical characters of arch, hangers and beam. In this paper, based on the hybrid structural feature, the dynamic model, namely, arch-spring-beam system, and its governing equations for in-plan free vibration of the arch bridge is proposed and established by Hamilton's principle, where hangers are modeled as springs with axial stiffness. The boundary and continuity conditions and the transfer matrix method are used to obtain the eigenvalue of the system. At the same time, the finite element method is utilized to verify the result obtained by the proposed model and method. Then, the parametric analysis is conducted in detail to explore the effect of key parameters, such as, stiffness of beam and arch, on the in-plane free vibration of the arch-spring-beam system.