Integrating wind tunnel tests of full aeroelastic models into the design of long span bridges

This paper presents an integrated design methodology which is based on the wind tunnel testing of full aeroelastic models in three-dimensional turbulent boundary layer flow. Dynamic wind load coefficients are obtained from an analysis of the test results of full aeroelastic models. Modal Load Distribution Functions are employed, both as a means to extract the essential information from the wind tunnel tests and to apply the loads in a rational manner to the design of the prototype. The paper describes the design methodology with respect to the wind loading, the methods used to obtain the dynamic wind load coefficients and the experience of the application of these new techniques to major structures.