BACKGROUND:
I am working on a bridge redesign project and it involves using precast prestressed solid flat slabs. The slabs have already been designed as part of a standard and are 4ft X 20ft. The standard is a two lane bridge with 6 slabs (24ft total width) and the new design will be three lanes with 8 slabs (32ft total width).
PROBLEM:
I am having some trouble with calculating the distribution factors for this type of bridge. I am familiar with DF's on typical slab and girder bridges, but this type is new to me. I have read and re-read the AASHTO section on this type of bridge (3.23.4, AASHTO Standard Specs. for Highway Bridge, 17th Ed. - Not LRFD), but it's still not 100% clear to me yet.
Any help or information in this matter would be greatly appreciated.
I am working on a bridge redesign project and it involves using precast prestressed solid flat slabs. The slabs have already been designed as part of a standard and are 4ft X 20ft. The standard is a two lane bridge with 6 slabs (24ft total width) and the new design will be three lanes with 8 slabs (32ft total width).
PROBLEM:
I am having some trouble with calculating the distribution factors for this type of bridge. I am familiar with DF's on typical slab and girder bridges, but this type is new to me. I have read and re-read the AASHTO section on this type of bridge (3.23.4, AASHTO Standard Specs. for Highway Bridge, 17th Ed. - Not LRFD), but it's still not 100% clear to me yet.
Any help or information in this matter would be greatly appreciated.