| A theoretical, numerical, and experimental study of vertical and horizontal forces due to non-breaking, monochromatic water waves propagating past select bridge superstructure spans is presented. A theoretical model is developed as the sum of the individual forcing components, drag, inertia, buoyancy, and slamming for a finite thickness slab span and for slab spans with beams. Forces were categorized by forcing frequency into lower frequency quasi-static forces and higher frequency slamming forces. A computer model is developed to evaluate the theoretical equations and assess the sensitivities of certain parameters. Stream function theory is used to calculate wave particle kinematics for the numerical model. Physical model tests were conducted for a range of fluid and structure parameters based on prototype cases of Florida coastal bridge structures and hurricane-generated waves. The experimental data was used to evaluate the drag and inertia coefficients in the theoretical model. Once calibrated the computer model was run for a wide range of structure, and wave conditions and the results used to develop parametric equations for use in design. The accuracy of the model was checked using data from two field sites where major bridges were exposed to significant storm surge and wave loading during a hurricane. The model performed well for both test cases. |
