By : Ximena Kitain Hamilton | TUB-ID: 490453 |
Abstract :
The Suspension Bridge Ontology encapsulates key domains, including the types of loads, materials, environmental sustainability, and cost-benefit considerations, facilitating a holistic understanding of suspension bridge systems. By integrating these elements into an ontology, stakeholders such as civil engineers, urban planners, and policymakers can access a comprehensive framework for decision-making and analysis in suspension bridge projects.
Suspension bridges
Background :
Suspension bridges offer an aesthetic alternative to build a bridge to connect two points. This alternative can be more sustainable than other variants, and the cables supporting the bridge not only allow the bridge to be longer, but also to be lighter in structure. A suspension bridge is a type of bridge where the deck is hung from cables that are supported by towers. The design allows for long spans, making it ideal for crossing wide bodies of water or deep valleys [3], [4].
From a static point of view, it has advantages such as the fact that, when there are concentrated loads, the bending stiffness of the deck girder has a favorable effect on the stiffness of the overall system against excessive deformations. The suspensions are arranged at regular intervals and usually vertically [4].
The vertical forces of the pendulums are converted into inclined tensile forces of the suspension cable running the entire length of the bridge. The resulting suspension line of the suspension cable is the result of the balance between the applied vertical forces and the tensile force on the suspension cable. The continuous main suspension cable is deflected through the towers and the resulting vertical compressive force is transferred to the ground through the towers. These systems can be stabilized by prestressing, as they counteract the deformation with restoring forces. In addition to the known elastic stiffness, the geometric stiffness must also be taken into account. The first step in the construction of a suspension bridge is to guide the suspension cables over the towers and then the stiffening beam can be attached to them in section, which provides the possibility of scaffold-free erection. The disadvantage would be the high cost of anchoring the suspension cables, which require very high forces to support the loads[4], [1].
Suspension bridges became a breakthrough in bridge engineering due to their ability to span long distances without needing many supports in the water or on the ground. This allowed for crossings in previously impossible locations, facilitating transportation and development, especially in areas like large rivers or bays. [1]
Key questions :
- What is the purpose?
The purpose of the Suspension Bridge Ontology is to provide a comprehensive framework that integrates and organizes key factors involved in the design, construction, and evaluation of suspension bridges. It helps ensure that bridges are designed efficiently, safely, and sustainably while optimizing economic outcomes. It allows engineers, planners, and decision-makers to systematically assess the interrelationships between various factors affecting the bridge’s performance, longevity, and environmental impact.
- What is the scope?
Overall, the scope includes all the interrelated elements that influence the design, operation, and maintenance of a suspension bridge, providing a comprehensive model to guide decision-making. More specific, this ontology includes concepts such as possible main materials of the bridge, possible uses, loads, and covers others aspects like cost and benefit analysis and environmental issues.
- Who are the intended users?
Civil and Structural Engineers: Professionals involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of suspension bridges. Urban and Transportation Planners: Individuals who need to understand the bridge’s role in the broader infrastructure network. Sustainability Experts: Professionals who are responsible for ensuring that the bridge construction and operation minimize environmental impact. Economists and Project Managers: Stakeholders involved in assessing the financial aspects of the bridge project. Government Authorities and Policy Makers: Agencies or organizations responsible for approving infrastructure projects and ensuring that the bridge meets regulatory, safety, and environmental standards.
- What is the intended use?
The ontology serves as a communication tool, allowing different stakeholders (engineers, planners, economists) to work together by providing a clear, structured view of all relevant factors and their interrelationships. In summary, the Suspension Bridge Ontology serves as a comprehensive, interdisciplinary tool that integrates engineering, sustainability, economic, and safety considerations to guide the entire process of suspension bridge planning, design, and operation.
Sketch of the system :
Arrows or lines connect nodes, showing dependencies: for example, materials affect the loads the bridge can carry, and cost-benefit analysis depends on both sustainability and risk analysis. The use of the bridge directly impacts load considerations and may influence both the material choice and maintenance costs. Risk analysis influences the cost-benefit analysis, where higher safety standards might increase initial costs but reduce long-term risks.
Ontology
[2] https://celp1.wordpress.com/2015/10/19/classification-and-characteristics-of-suspension-bridges/
Logical axioms :
I created my ontology following the top-down procedure. I started with a general concept. Next, I brainstormed and thought of different ideas where my concept could fit or how I could divide it into its different nuances. After getting a bit of a chaotic picture, I established the focus of my work and the function of my ontology. The basic questions to establish my scope, help me do that.
After that, it was a combination of both the top-down and bottom-up procedure and started to create relationships between my classes. Staying on track and knowing when to stop was the most difficult step. The numerical values incorporated into the ontology are derived from the referenced sources, including the books: [1], [5], [6], [7], [2], [8], [9], [10]. These references provide the foundational data used to inform the ontology’s parameters and structure.
Engineering examples :
- Creating infrastructure for a developing city
Scenario: Infrastructure in a city is a key identifier of growth because it directly supports economic development, enhances quality of life, and enables the efficient functioning of urban systems. In essence, infrastructure in a city represents its ability to support and manage growth in a sustainable, efficient, and equitable manner.
Use Case: The ontology can be useful to have an overview and at the same time a detailed view of the aspects to be considered in a Suspension Bridge to be profitable not only in the economic aspect (Cost Benefit Analysis) but also in the environmental aspect. Identifying the purpose of the bridge is fundamental, the materials used and the loads that the bridge would have to resist, depends directly on the use of the bridge. Therefore, the ontology tries to cover all the most important aspects to be taken into account.
- Design and Construction of a Suspension Bridge for a Coastal City
Scenario: A coastal city needs a new suspension bridge to connect two parts of the city across a wide bay, responding to growing transportation demands. The project requires careful consideration of environmental, safety, and economic factors, along with sustainable practices to minimize its long-term impact.
Use Case: The ontology would help in optimizing the bridge’s design, selecting materials like steel and concrete suited for coastal conditions, and managing the expected loads from vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Sustainability metrics would guide material choices and construction practices, ensuring reduced carbon footprint and long-term viability. Risk analysis would evaluate construction and operational risks, such as environmental impacts or structural failure. Cost-benefit analysis would assess the costs of construction and maintenance against long-term economic benefits like improved transportation, reduced congestion, and regional economic growth.
- Retrofitting an Existing Suspension Bridge to Support Heavy Freight Traffic
Scenario: An aging suspension bridge along a major trade route requires retrofitting to support increased heavy freight traffic. The project aims to extend the bridge’s lifespan while minimizing disruption and ensuring continued safety and performance.
Use Case: The ontology would model the increased loads from heavy trucks and ensure that the retrofitting design accommodates these new stresses without compromising structural integrity. Materials would be selected to reinforce the existing structure, ensuring durability and compatibility with the original design. Sustainability considerations would guide the retrofitting process, including the use of eco-friendly materials and reducing the carbon footprint of construction activities. Risk analysis would focus on potential challenges during retrofitting, such as structural issues or construction delays, while maintaining safety standards. Cost-benefit analysis would weigh the costs of retrofitting against the long-term benefits of increased freight capacity, reduced congestion, and extended bridge life.
References:
[1] K. Geißler, “Handbuch Brückenbau : Entwurf, Konstruktion, Berechnung, Bewertung und Ertüchtigung,” p. 1340, 2014.
[2] Infocivil.org, “Classification and Characteristics of Suspension Bridges,” 2015.
[3] P. D. s. t. M. S. e. al., “Vorlesungsskript : Brückenbau II – Seile,” p. 121, 2017.
[4] D. B. Yanev, “SUSPENSION BRIDGE CABLES: 200 YEARS OF EMPIRICISM, ANALYSIS AND MANAGEMENT,” 2009.
[5] D.-H. Choi, S.-G. Gwon, and H.-S. Na, “Simplified Analysis for Preliminary Design of Towers in Suspension Bridges,” Journal of Bridge Engineering, vol. 19, p. 04013007, 2014.
[6] B. M. Das, “Geotechnical Engineering Handbook ” p. 782, 211.
[7] W.-F. C. L. Duan, “BRIDGE ENGINEERING : Construction and Maintenance,” p. 236, 2003.
[8] T. Y. Weiwei Lin, “Bridge Engineering,” pp. 195-211, 2017.
[9] e. a. Wenming Zhang, “Evolution of suspension bridge structural systems, design theories, and shape-finding methods: A literature survey,” Journal of Traffic and Transportation Engineering (English Edition), vol. 11, pp. 225-244, 2024.
[10] M. T. Civelek, Y. Cengiz, “Developments in the Design and Construction of Suspension Bridges and Arch Bridges. ,” 2015.