Computer-Aided, Field-Verified Structural Evaluation: Report 1 - Development of Computer Modeling Techniques for Miter Lock Gates

The project entitled 'Computer-Aided, Field-Verified Structural Evaluation' is an effort in which analytical and experimental methods are combined to form a unique structural evaluation system. Analytical models may be evaluated using experimental measurements and modified to obtain results of increasing accuracy. The evaluation system has the capability to modify ambiguous analytical parameters using a constrained optimization technique to obtain a more realistic analytical model. This report describes the analytical modeling techniques which are used for miter lock gates. Several models which may be used to represent both vertically framed and horizontally framed miter gates have been developed. The models vary in accuracy and complexity, ranging from a simple grid model to a three-dimensional representation. The development of each model as well as the advantages and disadvantages for each are discussed. Two case studies for which limited experimental data were available were used in the development and verification of the proposed models. Based on these limited case studies, recommendations on modeling techniques for various conditions are provided. Appendixes are included to describe various unique characteristics included in the structural analysis program... Eccentricity, Linear elastic, Experimental measurement, Strain, Finite element analysis, Structural evaluation.