In order to give better predictions of the bridge mechanical behavior in field test, the approach of using multi-scale finite element model (FEM) was presented. A multi-scale FEM of the overall bridge was developed based on a practical bridge engineering. The accuracy of the multi-scale FEM was verified by the traditional beam element model. The multi-scale FEM was divided into the unconcerned segment and concerned segment. The concerned segment of the bridge girder was built with the solid elements to improve the analysis accuracy. The unconcerned was built with the beam elements to save the analysis costs. The comparisons among the FEM results and field test shown that the multi-scale FEM was especially suitable for the bridge filed test. This type of the model can give precise predictions on the stress distribution and flexural stiffness of the tested bridge.

CICTP