Comparison of the Behavior of Haunched Single Span Bridges with Other Types of Bridges.

A novel method for the design of variable depth single span bridges having maximum depth at the ends and minimum depth at midspan has been presented in a previous paper by the author. This design is possible by "fixing" the ends to "lock-in" negative moments, so that the positive moments at midspan are greatly reduced, allowing a shallow section to be used. The negative moments are locked-in by having short end cantilevers with tie-downs (rock/soil anchors) at their ends. The present paper expands on this work by comparing the static behavior of haunched single span bridges to that of other well-known bridge types, notably: (1) inclined leg and V-frame bridges, (2) three span continuous bridges, and (3) deck tied arch bridges. It is shown that the behavior of haunched single span bridges with tie-downs is very much the same as these three other well-known types of bridges. These haunched single span bridges are intended to be used for long span river crossings or highway overpasses, where only a single span is required, and an aesthetically pleasing graceful shape is desired, and/or the vertical clearance below needs to be maximized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]