Overhead sign-support bridges that allow displaying necessary information
for travelers across the multiple lanes in highways often use large message
sign panels: static message sign (SMS) panels or dynamic message sign (DMS)
panels. Along with conventional SMS panel, the use of DMS panel is increasing
in highways over time owing to their effective capability to guide the
travelers in real-time. A 230-ft long span 4-chord overhead steel truss bridge
attached with SMS and DMS panel has been studied through extensive finite
element analysis to observe the structural integrity. The static wind load was
applied in model truss for four different configurations as per 2016 AASHTO LRFD design specification. The
innovative structural detailing approach for truss end support and connection
detailing for toll-equipment supporting
frame was proposed based on static analysis. The present study will help
engineers to design overhead sign support bridges by ensuring both public
safety and structural integrity.
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