Other Methods of Analysis and Design

Article 9.6.1 of the AASHTO LRFD (7th Edition, 2014) allows for the use of refined methods of analysis for deck slabs as specified in Article 4.6.3.2. Refined methods can include finite element analysis, grillage analyses, or orthotropic plate theory. A finite element analysis may consist of a mesh of shell or brick-type elements representing the concrete deck alone, and can be used to determine the local transverse bending moments in the concrete slab. A grillage analysis using beam elements to represent the deck can also be used to determine the transverse bending moments in the concrete slab.

Local moments in the deck slab due to wheel loads can also be calculated through the use of Pucher Influence Charts, a practice somewhat common in Europe. The Pucher charts are a series of contour plots of influence surfaces for various plate and loading geometries, which can be used for deck design.