Finite strip method in probabilistic fatigue analysis of steel bridges

A finite strip method is developed for fatigue reliability analysis of steel highway bridges. Flat shell strips are employed to model concrete slab and steel girders, while a connection strip is formed using penalty function method to take into account eccentricity of girder top flange. At each sampling point with given slab thickness and modulus ratio, a finite strip analysis of the bridge under fatigue truck is performed to calculate stress ranges at fatigue-prone detail, and fatigue failure probability is evaluated following the AASHTO approach or the LEFM approach. After the failure probability is integrated over all sampling points, fatigue reliability of the bridge is determined.