Bridge strengthening is frequently associated with costly, long-term reconstruction. In some cases the bridge load capacity is sufficient for standard traffic, but requirements for an extremely heavy vehicle can exceed the maximal bridge load capacity. These vehicles normally weigh hundreds of tons. Moreover, well-known bridge strengthening technologies are not efficient and economical for this special load case.
This doctoral thesis presents a short-term bridge strengthening method using a temporary support structure for the assistance of the existing bridge carrying structure. Although this strengthening method is rather old, it is rarely known. Approaches from 1980, are still often used, rely on simplified principles and approximation models. This approximation causes restricted efficiency of the strengthening system and creates a mathematical model that is not necessarily safe.
The introduced new short-term bridge strengthening theory is based on monitoring of real bridge structures and temporary support structures during the crossing of extremely heavy vehicles. A mathematical model, which represents behaviour of real structures suitable, is introduced. The major effects, which have the greatest influence on this strengthening method are discussed. Further more a safety hydraulic element invented at Brno University of Technology, which can be used with the strengthening system is shown. The application of this system ensures required boundary conditions and therefore it guarantees the proper usage of the strengthening system.