Nonlinear dynamic behavior analysis of bridge pier impacted by a moving barge

The contradiction between ships and bridges is becoming increasingly prominent, and ship-bridge collision accidents occur frequently. However, the existing researches focus on the impact force, the bridge will be simplified to a single pier, but the single pier collision model cannot accurately reflect the dynamic behaviors and damage evolution process of collision. In order to solve this problem, a refined barge-whole bridge collision finite element model is established. This model can be used to analyze the dynamic characteristics of barge and whole bridge collision. According to finite element results, the impact force can be divided into four phases: (1) Linear elastic phase, (2) Buckling unstable phase, (3) Plastic deformation phase and (4) Unloading phase. The impact velocity and barge mass change the initial kinetic energy of the barge, which is positively correlated with the peak impact force and the duration of the impact force. Compared with the barge-single pier collision model, the barge-whole bridge collision model is more systematic and comprehensive in reflecting the dynamic behavior of collision. In this paper, the research of barge-bridge collision provides a scientific basic theoretical basis for the design of anti-collision facilities, the proposal of post-collision damage assessment techniques and the development of bridge post-collision warning system.