ABSTRACT
Numerical methods, such as the nite element method (FEM), are fundamental to bridge structure analysis. When analyzing or designing a bridge, different modern computer programs may be used. A deep understanding of the principles of the underlying methods to analyzing or designing a bridge is essential to properly conduct bridge analysis and design and is particularly important in building an appropriate computer model representing a bridge for different types of analyses. In this chapter, the principles of FEM, the automatic time incremental creep analysis method, and the inuence line/surface live loading method are introduced to provide the basis for computational applications in bridge analysis and design.
