The Viana footbridge: construction and dynamic monitoring

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2013

Authors

R. Barbosa (Author) Other; F. Magalhães (Author) FEUP; E. Caetano (Author) FEUP; Á. Cunha (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers: Bridge Engineering

Vol. 166 No. 4

Pages: 273-290

ISSN: 1478-4637

Publisher: Thomas Telford Services Ltd.

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge

Scopus - 7 Citations

Scientific classification

FOS: Engineering and technology > Civil engineering

CORDIS: Technological sciences > Engineering > Civil engineering > Structural engineering

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-009-6PB

DOI: 10.1680/bren.10.00048

Abstract (EN): A new moveable footbridge was recently built at the entrance of Marina Atlantico in the city of Viana do Castelo, Portugal. This paper presents a brief description of the global solution, with a special focus on the characterisation of the construction methods adopted. Particular consideration is given to the construction of the pivot pylon and the steel structure, showing how all the bridge components work together to ensure a safe working relationship with the marina, the river and users of the continuous bicycling and pedestrian pathway running across the closed bridge. The mechanical, hydraulic, electrical and navigational light systems play fundamental roles, especially during bridge opening and closing operations. Moreover, as this light footbridge is susceptible to vibrations due to human traffic, the paper also describes the dynamic tests performed during and after construction, including two ambient vibration tests, the measurement of cable-stay forces, and tests with groups of pedestrians used to evaluate induced vibration levels along with the monitoring of bridge accelerations over 4 months of use.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 18