Application of 3D solid modeling and simulation programs to a bridge structure

This paper presents our work on the integrated use of computational methods (e.g. geometric modeling, simulation, visualization and optimization) for structural analysis and design. The focus in this paper is on 3D solid modeling and dynamic simulation. The paper describes our program system comprising the in-house program FEM90 integrated with commercial CAD and optimization programs. The program system is tested on a major bridge structure example. The example shows that 3D solid modeling and simulation are versatile tools for design of structures.