For the rational design of concrete block pavements, it is necessary to make clear their mechanical behaviors. The Finite Element Method (FEM) provides a powerful tool to handle discontinuous structures, such as concrete block pavements. Then, we developed the computer program for analysis of concrete block pavements by the use of the FEM.
The triangular and rectangular plate elements are employed to represent concrete blocks. A joint is modeled as a set of springs and the stiffness matrix of the joint element is derived by the principle of the virtual work. The values of the spring coefficients in the joint element should be determined from experiments or field tests. A subbase is assumed to be a Winkler foundation.
By means of this model, the mechanical behaviors of concrete block pavements are examined under various conditions.
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