Long Span Modular Bridges: smarter, extensible, lighter and fast assembly
“SELF_BRIDGES - Long Span Modular Bridges: smarter, extensible, lighter and fast assembly” project is promoted by BERD (co-promotor leader) and Itecons (ENESII), and it aims at the research and development of a modular bridge, with pre-assembled, configurable and fast installation components, by incorporating new assembly technologies, e.g., extensible or foldable solutions, to reduce the number and volume of pre-assembled components and facilitate their installation on the site.
Thus, the project will result in an innovative modular bridge solution, different of the currently existing solutions in the market, to reduce transport costs and facilitate the assembly process of modular bridges on the site. Also, it aims to develop a solution that incorporates in the structure an advanced monitoring technology via TIC for the deformations and fatigue behaviour, allowing to monitor and control the structural behaviour. Finally, it aims to develop an integrated reinforcement system that allows to overcome the limitation, of the maximum span between the supports, of 120 metres to a distance between spans up to 150 metres.
The project, as mentioned, is promoted by a consortium of two co-promoters (BERD and Itecons), will last 24 months.