ABSTRACT
An early-warning model was established in this study for the purpose of scientifically and accurately evaluating the operational safety conditions of in-service cross-sea tied-arch bridges. An early-warning index system for the operational safety of in-service cross-sea tied-arch bridges was constructed by combining the relevant national regulations and an analysis of the health inspection data results of actual engineering projects. Then, the G1 method was adopted to determine the weights of the Grade III indicators in the constructed early-warning system. In addition, an analysis method was applied which involved comprehensive correlation in the extensive-set theory in order to examine the operational safety conditions of the Jiangnan Bridge on Daishan Island, Zhejiang Province. The final extension comprehensive correlation K(x) = -0.048 was calculated using the model constructed in this study. The results revealed that the operational safety early-warning level of the investigated bridge should be at a medium level, which suggested that maintenance and reinforcement measures should be taken immediately. These findings verified the scientific value of the proposed early-warning model. The results obtained in this study not only provided technical support for business proprietors overseeing the operation and management of cross-sea bridges, but also supported a theoretical basis for the evaluations of the operational safety of in-service bridges located in coastal areas.
