Frequency- and time-domain methods related to flutter instability problem

Abstract

Bridge flutter phenomenon presents an important criterion of instability, which should be considered in the bridge design phase. This paper presents different bridge flutter methods which can be used to solve the flutter problem. Most commonly used frequency-domain approach is based on the formulation of aero elastic forces with frequency dependent coefficients called flutter derivatives. The critical wind speed, as the main critical condition for the onset of flutter is obtained based on these aero elastic forces. Aero elastic forces can be also expressed in the time-domain, using so-called indicial functions. These functions are usually determined from the corresponding flutter derivatives. In situations when fluid-memory effects tend to become small the quasi-steady theory can be used as an approximation of aero elastic forces. A numerical example related to the typical bridge cross-section follows presented approaches. .