The Structures Group in the Engineering Department has an active group of researchers investigating a range of problems related to bridge engineering, with particular emphasis on yield-line analysis and reliability analysis of concrete bridges.
The use of yield-line analysis in the assessment of the strength and safety of concrete bridges, including the development of a computer program (COBRAS). The program is now available commercially from Cambridge University Technical Services Limited. For more information see http://www.cobras.co.uk/.
Paul Fidler, Computer Associate
Dr Campbell Middleton, Supervisor
This is a project specifically looking at improving the methodology currently used for determining acceptable levels of safety for existing concrete bridges. One of the key ideas being examined is how Proffessor Rackwitz' new Life Quality Index approach to setting target safety levels can be applied in practical situations.
Daniel Imhoff, PhD Student
Dr Campbell Middleton, Supervisor
Prof. Andrew Palmer, Advisor
This project, supported by the Highways Agency in the UK is looking at the uncertainty of bridge inspection and testing. This involves looking at the effect of uncertainty in non-destructive test methods on the decisions made with relation tobridge safety and also on bridge maintenance and repair actions. This also includes a study of the effectiveness of visual inspection.
Francesca Lea, PhD Student
Dr Campbell Middleton, Supervisor
Using reliability analysis to assign priorities to the repair and replacement of existing structures.
Dr Victoria Hogg, Research Associate
Dr Campbell Middleton, Supervisor
The study of the effects of corrosion on the deterioration of steel and concrete highway structures, aiming to provide a practical tool for use in the assessment of highway structures such that indications of future performance can be obtained for a number of different bridges.
Dr Victoria Hogg, Research Associate
Dr Campbell Middleton, Supervisor