Numerical Modelling and Model Updating Based on Experimental Modal Parameters of Ceira Viaduct

The main purpose of this work is the validation of the model of the Ceira Viaduct with the calculation of the modal parameters and, in particular, with the comparison between numerical and experimental results. To do this, the most important aspects of modal are initially presented. The contents are presented providing, at first, a theoretical background of the topic. The theoretical aspects are addressed using the classical approach commonly used for dynamic structural analysis, by posing particular attention on the aspects then considered in some applications. The examples presented are implemented by the software MATLAB and Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis. In some cases the results obtained can be compared to some analytical results, this allows the validation of the implement routines. Additionally, some aspects of the ambient vibration tests are shown in order to understand the processes to obtain the experimental modal parameters. Some practical procedures are applied, at first, to a simple frame and then to the bridge. In the end, the application of the theoretical concepts in the structure of the bridge is presented. The modelling of the structure is described in several steps and the calculation of the modal parameters is done by using this model. The comparison between experimental and numerical parameters represents the point of arrival of the work, making possible the validation of the numerical model. In this way, it is possible to understand the importance of the presence of the experimental data when finite elements models are used to get the results.