49131 Bridge Design

This subject introduces students to the fundamentals of design, maintenance and management of road bridges, using a problem-based learning approach that focuses on extensive use of examples from practice and detailed case studies. Three essential themes are used to cover the course material: (1) overview of appropriate structural forms for bridges; (2) load and analysis models/methods for designing bridges and quantifying structural behaviour; and (3) management of bridge assets, including inspection and assessment techniques and maintenance and rehabilitation technologies. The subject is unique in that it not only covers design issues for Australian conditions, but also addresses the critical area of maintenance and rehabilitation using state-of-the-art technologies. The course material has been developed jointly by specialist bridge engineers from the Centre for Built Infrastructure Research at UTS and the Bridge Section of the Roads and Traffic Authority NSW.

Assessment: Each student is required to undertake a series of design projects involving design aspects of new bridge types and rehabilitation of existing bridges. Assessment will consist of assignments (70 per cent) and quizzes (30 per cent).

Texts and references

AS5100–2004 Bridge Design, Standards Australia International, Sydney

Class notes

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus
This subject is offered in odd years only; it will next be offered in 2007.