Ontario Modular Bridge Analysis System

Abstract

A software system, the Ontario Modular Bridge Analysis System, being developed by the Province of Ontario for the design and analysis of highway structures is described. The new Ontario Highway Bridge Design Code, an entirely limit states code, created the need for a new or drastically revised system. An outline is given of the advisability study that led to the design of an entirely modularized, data base supported system, providing the low processing costs and user convenience of single-purpose programs together with sophisticated analytical methods for nonroutine problems.The system comprises an applications subsystem and a utilities subsystem. The applications subsystem consists of 11 macro-modules, each performing a distinct task and capable of being replaced or modified without necessitating changes elsewhere in the system. The macro-modules are Input, Control, Geometry, Idealization, Load, Solution, Live Load, Combination, Resistance, Design and Detailing, and Output.The utilities subsystem consists of modules providing services to construct or facilitate the use of the applications subsystem. These include a problem-oriented language analyzer, memory and data base manager, output utilities, and mathematical utilities.The description of the system is general with more details given concerning important or original features such as methods of analysis and the specifications analyzer, which places all design code requirements in a single, readily changeable module. Key words: analysis, bridges, codes, computers, data base, design, modular systems, software, structures.