Influence of Excitation Angle and Soil-Structure Interaction on the Seismic Response of Bridges

In real life, seismic excitations can come at any angle to the bridge. However, very limited experimental research has considered this effect, especially including the soil effect. This paper narrows the knowledge gap through shake table experiments considering 0- and 30-degree excitations. Base excitations are simulated based on New Zealand design spectra for shallow and soft soil conditions. Bridge models with a fixed base and sand support are considered. It was observed that, under 0-degree excitation, soil support will lead to a larger maximum displacement in the longitudinal direction. However, an opposite trend is observed under 30-degree excitation.