Mechanical characteristics and design parameter analysis of spherical hinge structure for swivel bridge

Area of Science:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Structural Engineering
• Bridge Design

Background:

• Spherical hinge structures are vital in swivel bridges but exhibit complex mechanical behavior under high pressure.
• Accurate theoretical analysis and on-site monitoring of these structures are challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically examine the mechanical characteristics and design parameters of simplified spherical hinge structures.
• To investigate the mechanical properties of a representative spherical hinge structure through scaled testing.

Main Methods:

• Numerical simulations and formula derivation were employed to analyze simplified spherical hinge structures.
• An indoor scaled test was conducted on a representative spherical hinge structure.

Main Results:

• Contact pressure on the spherical hinge interface shows a radial outward increase with a cubic distribution.
• Support radius is the most critical factor affecting maximum stress.
• Coordinated deformation failure occurs between aperture ratios of 0.042-0.083, causing negative pressure.
• Sliders in spherical hinge structures introduce complex stress states, with highest stress near the inner ring slider and pin hole.

Conclusions:

• The study provides critical insights into the mechanical behavior of spherical hinges in swivel bridges.
• Findings can guide the design of spherical hinge structures for various bridge types.