Evaluación de la capacidad estructural y respuesta bajo cargas de servicio de la superestructura de un puente Viga-Losa, de la UPS - Sede Guayaquil

Abstract

The present research focuses on the technical evaluation and structural validation of a 19-meter span composite girder-slab bridge located at the María Auxiliadora campus of the Universidad Politécnica Salesiana in Guayaquil. The study addresses the necessity of determining the actual capacity of these structures given the increase in modern traffic volume and weight, factors that compromise the integrity of the composite action and fatigue resistance over a long-term design horizon. Unlike simplified calculation methods, the methodology employed in this work utilizes advanced numerical modeling through Finite Element Method (FEM) using Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis software. This tool allows for the precise simulation of construction stages and the mechanical interaction between the steel girders and the reinforced concrete slab, ensuring the generation of dynamic calculation reports and 3D visualizations that eliminate uncertainties inherent in manual calculations. The structural analysis is governed by the contemporary guidelines of the AASHTO LRFD specifications, applying live loads and simultaneously evaluating Strength, Service, and Fatigue Limit States. The fundamental objective of this thesis is to quantify the performance of the composite section to determine the technical feasibility of its rehabilitation. The results provide concrete data on the safety and efficiency of the structure, allowing for the projection of its use as a safe access route and validating an optimized design methodology for road infrastructure in Ecuador.