Applied element method with kinematic coupling and its application to link slab bridge

The use of segment transition in bridges (e.g. link slab bridge) is common bridge construction practice. However, state-of-the-art researches concerning link slab bridges are somewhat inconsistent. This may stem from the fact that these analyses primarily rely on the conventional finite-element method (FEM), which is based on continuum mechanics. Continuum mechanics is known to have deficiency in handling problems with cracking and fracture phenomena; cracking is common in the case of link slab bridges. This calls for a more advanced simulation method for the link slab bridge. The applied element method (AEM) is an ideal candidate. This paper presents an AEM formulation with a new kinematic coupling approach. This is motivated from the observation that in link slab bridges there may be kinematic constraints for some regions. The proposed method is described in detail, including basic concepts of AEM and modifications of the system-level stiffness matrix due to the kinematic constraint. Several validation examples are then presented. These validations demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed method. Finally, a comparison with the FEM highlights the benefit of the proposed methodology. Hence it is expected to contribute to the analysis and design of link slab bridges.