Comparative Evaluation of the Dynamic Behavior of the Católica Pedestrian Bridge Using Analytical and Numerical Methods According to the SETRA 2006

Romero B.; Miguel L.; Bazalar M.; Rios N.; Huaco G.; Awoyera P. · International Conference on Civil, Structural and Transportation Engineering (2026) · DOI: 10.11159/iccste26.118

Resumen

This article presents an analytical and numerical evaluation of the dynamic behavior of an existing pedestrian bridge subjected to pedestrian-induced vibrations, with the objective of assessing its comfort level and susceptibility to resonance. The pedestrian dynamic load was modeled using Fourier series coefficients, pedestrian densities, damping ratios, and reduction factors established by the SETRA guidelines. Complementarily, a detailed numerical model was developed in SAP2000 based on in-situ measurements of the structure’s geometry, stiffness, mass distribution, and boundary conditions. The analytical results for Load Class I indicated a vertical acceleration of 2.057 m/s², while the numerical model produced 1.70 m/s²; both values fall within SETRA Range 3, associated with perceptible vibrations and a medium comfort level. In contrast, Load Class III generated a significantly lower acceleration (0.360 m/s²), classified as Range 1, corresponding to optimal comfort due to reduced dynamic excitation. Modal analysis revealed a vertical natural frequency of 1.32 Hz, which is below the minimum recommended by AASHTO, confirming the inherent susceptibility of the bridge to resonance under rhythmic pedestrian loading. The consistency between the analytical and numerical approaches validates the reliability of the findings and confirms that, under demanding loading scenarios, the bridge experiences vibration levels that may be considered unacceptable. Finally, the study highlights the need to implement mitigation devices—such as tuned mass dampers—to improve pedestrian comfort and ensure safe structural performance, providing a valuable technical basis for the design and application of vibration-control measures in similar pedestrian bridge structures.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas