Abstract: Traditional methods of bridge deck condition assessment are slow, labor‐intensive, intrusive to traffic, and unreliable. Two new technologies, radar and infrared thermography, which have recently been introduced, show promise for producing rapid and accurate condition assessment for bridge decks. These technologies are being applied without the benefit of a firm physical understanding of their inherent capabilities and limitations. This paper discusses the physical principles upon which these techniques are based, and proposes simple physical models for the prediction of radar and infrared response to various bridge deck conditions. Parameter studies are carried out using these models to predict the radar and infrared response to moisture, chloride, delamination, and deck geometry. The model study results show the range of sensitivity and the inherent limitations of these two techniques. These results have led to the suggestion of a predictive technique that has been used in field studies of repaired and ...

Abstract: The article discusses the repairing of concrete bridge decks that should give a composite deck of at least the strength of the original deck. The strength of the composite deck depends on the bond between the old and the new concrete; the factors affecting this bond are discussed. Research in this area is discussed, and tests are described. Pull-off tests on composite concrete test slabs and on repaired concrete bridge decks show that a good bond between old and new concrete can be obtained without expensive connecting dowels if certain precautions are taken. These precautions relate to removal of concrete, cleaning of the contact surface, compaction of the concrete overlay; and the curing of the overlay.

Abstract: An important goal of operability research is the development of quantitative seakeeping criteria to permit the effects of ship motions on operations to be assessed. This paper examines the problem of developing seakeeping criteria for deck operations. The lateral force estimator is generalized to permit frequency-domain computation of the incidence of personnel losing balance in the presence of non-zero vertical acceleration. The inadequacy of roll-angle based seakeeping criteria for deck operations is shown. Other possible criteria for deck operations are discussed, and it is concluded that a limit on the number of motion-induced interruptions during deck operations is most suitable, since it is platform-independent, and may now be computed in the frequency-domain.

Abstract: An upper deck shell is provided on a main deck shell in the aft region of the fuselage (10). In the aft region (18), an upper deck (38) is provided above the main deck (36). Passenger seats (Sm, Su) are provided on both the main deck (36) and the upper deck (38). A transition region (54) is provided in which a stairway (58) is located. The stairway permits passengers and crew to move between the main deck (36) and the upper deck (38).

Abstract: In a vehicle having a load deck, deck sidewalls including respective wheel wells, and a tailgate, a security enclosure for installation on the load deck thereof comprises a first panel mounted between the deck sidewalls and sloping upwardly toward the tailgate from a first end adjacent the load deck to a distal second end. A second panel coupled to the second end of the first panel and extending therefrom toward the tailgate defines an enclosed space with the first panel, the tailgate, the load deck, and the deck sidewalls. A releasable lock mechanism is attached to the second panel and includes a bolt extendable through a bore formed through the first panel to secure the second panel to the first panel. In addition, the second panel includes opposing sloped edges for engaging the wheel wells to support the second panel in a generally horizontal position.

Abstract: The TRRL has carried out a number of investigations to assess the fatigue performance of welded joints in orthotropic bridge decks. The assessment method is based on the UK design code, BS 5400 part 10. Stresses due to traffic loading were obtained from static load tests on trial deck panels in the laboratory under a single wheel load, and on bridges using a two axle test vehicle. This report describes constant amplitude fatigue tests carried out on some of the main types of welded joint in two designs of deck panel used on bridges in the UK and elsewhere. The test results were used to assign the joints to the appropriate weld class in the design code. The joints tested were: the longitudinal stiffener (trough) to deck; alternative types of trough to crossbeam; trough splice; crossbeam to deck; longitudinal web to deck; and deck plate butt welds. For most joints the test specimen and loading were designed to simulate the passage of single wheels over the joint and fatigue strength can be expressed in terms of stress in the plate adjacent to the weld. It was found that several of the joints could be upgraded compared to the BS 5400 classifications, but inspection and quality assurance requirements are likely to limit the weld class which can be used for joints on bridges.

Abstract: A dock leveler lift assembly for facilitating loading and unloading operations from a loading dock is provided. The assembly includes a deck adjustable in a leveler mode between selected raised and lowered angular positions relative to the platform surface of the dock as well as adjustable in a lift mode between lift and descent positions while the deck is maintained in a horizontal position. The deck is releasably mounted on a first mechanism for raising and lowering the deck in a horizontal position. A second mechanism releasably retains a deck rear edge portion pivotally attached to an elevated portion of a frame. Pivotal attachment of the deck to the frame coupled with lowering of the first mechanism out of direct contact with the underside of the deck permits movement of the deck to a lowered angular position relative to the dock surface. A method for operating such an assembly is also provided.

Abstract: An experimental and analytical investigation was conducted regarding the behavior of Ontario-type reinforced concrete bridge decks. A full-scale bridge deck (both cast-in-place and precast), detailed in accordance with the Texas Department of Highways provisions for Ontario-type decks, and having about 60% of the reinforcement required by the current AASHTO code, performed well under current AASHTO design load levels. Under service and overload conditions (about three times the current AASHTO design wheel load), the behavior of the deck slab was essentially linear. Membrane forces did not noticeably affect the performance of the bridge prior to deck cracking. After cracking, significant compressive membrane forces were present in the deck, and could significantly increase its flexural capacity. Detailed finite element models of the specimen were developed for both the cast-in-place and precast panel deck cases. Cracking of the deck was followed using sequential linear analyses with a smeared cracking model. Analytical predictions agreed well with experimental results.

Abstract: A dual deck video cassette recorder, having first and second video decks in a common housing. Each deck has a plurality of heads and both of the decks can playback, and at least one of the decks can record. A switch arrangement is connected to both decks to provide for selective connections of video and audio signals between, and from the inputs to and outputs from, the two decks. A sensor detects the angular position of the heads of each deck to assure they are in phase prior to initiating recording. A mechanism corrects the angular position of the heads of at least one of the decks to assure the heads of each will be in the same angular phase prior to initiating recording. A circuit detects a copy protection signal on a tape in one deck during vertical blanking and the signal is located and timed so that it will not interfere with normal operation of the video signals, to produce a quality picture on a TV monitor or place information onto tape in one deck which provides a quality picture. A circuit is provided for ceasing, and preventing, any copying function being performed when the copy protection signal has been detected, and it also determines, after the copy protection signal has be detected, that the signals at both decks have been synchronized for a predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A heli-hover amphibious craft which includes a main hover craft fuselage body structure including a single hull provided with a deck. The hull is defined by a compartmental under base cavity extending downward with divisional and perimeter walls formed by air cushion containing structure for containing suspension air. The fuselage body is provided with at least one built-in duct extending through said deck to said base cavity. At least one deck mounted fan is provided for delivering pressurized air through the duct. A superstructure is attached to the fuselage body. At least one horizontally rotating heli-rotor assembly is supported well above the deck by the superstructure, with the heli-rotor assembly being driven by a substantially vertically fixed shaft. An anti-torque device provided on an aft portion of the fuselage body. A drive mechanism is operatively connected to the heli-rotor assembly and the anti-torque device for propelling the craft.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an adjustable hinge assembly for a vehicle closure or deck lid which can be readily, vertically adjusted to enable the deck lid to be positioned so as to be flush with adjacent quarter panels of the vehicle when in a closed position. This is achieved by providing a stationary hinge box with slotted sides and a horizontal slide with skewed slotted sides to effect vertical movement of a hinge pivot of a hinge strap to raise and lower a deck lid connected to the hinge strap.

Abstract: An insulating floor is composed of a deck, supporting plastic beams which are mounted on an underpan, the underpan being supported on metal crossing beams, the regions between the deck, plastic beams and underpan being filled with foamed plastic providing insulation and adhesively and mechanically bonding the components together.

Abstract: A breakdown air mattress assembly (A) is illustrated which includes a mattress (B) enclosed within a foam perimeter deck (C) which are both enclosed within a mattress cover (10). Deck (C) comprises individual deck sections (40a, 40b) which comprise a first side wall (32). Second deck sections (42a, 42b) which comprise a second side wall (34). Front deck sections (44a, 44b) comprising a front wall (36); and back deck sections (46a, 46b) comprising a back wall (38). Dissimilar joint means (D, E, F) join together the respective deck sections so that assembly may be had only in a prescribed and correct manner. A web (90) joins front and back sections (36, 38) together to cover a longitudinal joint (22) formed between dual mattresses (12, 14) in the case of a queen size or king size bed arrangement.

Abstract: This paper presents selected structural concepts for modular bridge deck systems taking into account the limitations imposed by fabrication processes for polymer matrix composites. An idealized structural model is developed for the analysis of such composite structures when subjected to traffic loads. This model uses averaged engineering constants for the laminate, while the designs assume special ply stacking sequences to achieve optimum structural performance. A consequence of such stacking sequences is to reduce the anisotropy of the laminate. A finite element analysis is performed to evaluate the mechanical performance of the proposed deck systems. As is characteristic of fiber-reinforced plastics, the design of the deck systems is governed by the deflection limit state rather than the strength limit state which is typical for conventional structural materials. A hybrid FRP/concrete system is found to be promising particularly from the viewpoint of cost. The objective of the concrete in the hybrid concept is to resist the compressive force. However, in order to keep the use of FRP at a minimum it is necessary to subject parts of the concrete to tensile forces. The use of fiber-reinforced concrete as opposed to plain reinforced concrete is recommended under these conditions.

Abstract: An improved skateboard having roller trucks attached to the underside of the skateboard deck. The trucks are insulated from the skateboard deck by riser pads of sufficient thickness to receive and house self-contained battery operated lamps. The lamps are positioned to direct light beams from beneath the deck in fore and aft directions. Switch means in the lamps are operable to turn the lamps on and off.

Abstract: A hydraulic piping structure for controlling a boom assembly supported through a swing bracket by a swivel deck of a backhoe. The piping structure includes a plurality of hydraulic hoses for supplying oil from a pressure source mounted on the swivel deck to hydrauylic cylinders for controlling a boom and other components of the boom assembly. These hoses are arranged parallel on an upper face of the boom, with hoses connected to a boom cylinder being curved on a vertical plane. The parallel boses extend to the swivel deck through an interior space of the swing bracket and are fixed in position by a clamp mechanism therein. On the swivel deck, these hoses are separated into two batches and fixed in position by further clamp mechanisms, respectively.

Abstract: This paper summarises results of an experimental investigation to determine the ultimate strength of ship hull girders. The 2-year experimental investigation was conducted at the University of California experimental facility. In the first phase a stiffened steel hull model of approximate dimensions 42 ft x 8 ft x 30 inches was tested. The model represented the middle section of a 75,600 dwt tanker and was subjected to a sagging moment in order to examine the failure behaviour of the deck under compression. The second model (phase 2) was designed to reflect several possible modes of failure of an open deck ship. It was tested with loads simulating a hogging bending moment along with lateral pressure on the bottom. A comparison between simple theoretical analyses and the experimental results for the two models are presented. Approximate methods for including the effects of residual stresses and initial distortions on the moment capacity of the models are also discussed. A number of possible reasons for the discrepancy between theoretical and experimental results are investigated in detail. Recommendations are also made for further research.

Abstract: A study is made of the seismic behaviour of base-isolated highway bridges with the objective of developing design procedures in the form of code-type approach. The recommendations of current codes concerning the use of energy dissipation mechanisms for the seismic design of bridges are reviewed. A model representing the bridge deck, piers, and the base-isolation system is used to evaluate the response of the bridge to a selected earthquake time history record and to evaluate the effects of various design parameters on the dynamic response. The results of this analysis are used in the development of design guidelines for the isolated bridge system. It was found that base isolation affects the design forces on piers and abutments as well as the deck displacements. An optimum design should provide a reasonable balance between the shear forces on supports and tolerable displacements. Two design procedures are proposed based on the time history and inelastic response spectra approaches. Simplified charts are p...

Abstract: A device that can be fixed to a sun deck or the deck of a dock or pier by means of a T bar extending through the spaces between the floor boards or planks of a sun deck or a dock or a pier wherein said T bar is inserted into the space and rotated ninety degrees to where the T bar catches the board or planks. A threaded plug is fixed to the shaft of the T Bar to prevent the T bar from falling out of the space between the floor boards. A T flange with an inside thread is screwed onto the threaded plug, pulling the T flange onto the bottom side of the planks, locking the T flange and T bar to the planks. A fishing rod or other item is placed into the vertical tube of the T flange and is held by gravity or other means. This sun deck or dock and pier rod and tool holding device can be used to support a chair or work tools. It can be removed in the same manner that it was set.

Abstract: An important consideration in stress-laminated timber bridges is the retention of the prestress force in the deck. This paper presents the results of an experimental and analytical investigation of the prestress level in a prototype stress-laminated timber-bridge deck. Loss of prestress force can be minimized using disc springs on the tensioning rods that reduce the effective stiffness of the prestressing system. The disc springs also provide a practical technique for measuring prestress force. It is also shown that the initial loss of prestress force due to wood creep can be accurately modeled as a power function of time and that this model can be used for predictive purposes. The effect of temperature changes on the prestress level is investigated, and it is demonstrated that this is a significant effect that should be included in future design specifications. Finally, the performance of the distribution channel is evaluated analytically and a performance parameter is identified.

Abstract: A pallet constructed from paperboard has longitudinally extending runners formed from paperboard cores having various configurations and connected to a deck In the preferred embodiment the cores form runners which are cylindrical members having notches transversely extending through the periphery, and the deck is formed from a number of elongated arcuate segments of cylindrical cores positioned within aligned notches of the various runners Other notches are formed diametrically remote from the deck members for receiving brace members also formed from elongated arcuate segments of cylindrical core members The notches in the preferred embodiment have a dovetail configuration with the narrow portion facing outwardly from the cores The deck members are positioned in the notches with the convex portion of the members facing upwardly, while the brace members are positioned in the respective lower notches with the concave surfaces facing downwardly A method is disclosed for forming the pallets including cutting of the elongated segments for the deck members and brace members

Abstract: A bracket apparatus having a general U-shaped configuration with spaced front and back plates interconnected by a bottom plate. An angled plate extends upward from the front plate of the bracket. One or more of the hanger bracket apparatus are secured to the support surface. A header joist at the proximal end of the deck to the support surface is supported on the angled plate of the apparatus with a header joist at the opposite, distal end of the deck resting on the ground prior to positioning the deck in its horizontal orientation relative to the vertical support surface. As the distal end of the deck is elevated to orient the deck horizontal relative to the support surface, the header joist at the proximal end of the deck slides downward and is received between the front and back plates of the hanger bracket apparatus secured to the support surface. The proximal end of the deck is supported by the bottom plate of the apparatus and a vertical support is inserted beneath the distal end of the deck to support the pre-assembled deck in a horizontal disposition relative to the vertical support surface.

Abstract: 104 R. E. Klingner Phil M. Ferguson Professor in Civil Engineering The University of Texas at Austin Austin, Texas A 20 x 50 (6.10 x 15.24 m), full scale bridge deck (both cast-in-place and precast panel), detailed using Texas SDHPT provisions for decks with Ontario-type isotropic reinforcement, was constructed in the laboratory. The ultimate load performance of the deck was investigated. Under single and tandem concentrated loads, the deck failed in punching shear. The ultimate concentrated load capacity of the deck was closely predicted by a proposed general punching shear model. Both the current ACI and AASHTO punching shear formulas were very conservative.

Abstract: A pontoon log is formed by welding the upper flanged edges of a U-shaped hull member to the side edges of a flat top plate. At points at which the deck beams are to be attached to the log, the log top plate is notched and the weld is continued around the perimeter of each notch. The deck beams are bolted to the pontoon log with the bolts passing only through the hull flange in the region of the notches and hence outboard of the weld line. The modified embodiments, various types of spacers and clips are provided to reinforce the hull flange in the region of deck beam attachment.

Abstract: A bridge deck panel support system and method for supporting precast bridge deck panels on a bridge girder. The bridge deck panel support system (10) comprises at least one grade bar support member (24) which is anchored to the bridge girder (14) with a grade bar support anchor (16) so as to extend upwardly from the bridge girder (14). At least one grade bar (28) for supporting one or more deck panels (12) is secured to the upper portion (26) of the grade bar support member (24), the grade bar (28) being selectively spaced from the girder (14) such that a grout receiving space (32) is defined between the grade bar (28) and the girder (14). The grout receiving space (32) is filed with non-shrink grout (34) such that the load of the deck panels (12) is transferred from the grade bar (28) to the grout (34). The method of the present invention includes the steps of securing the grade bar support member (24) to the girder (14), securing the grade bar (28) to the grade bar support member (24), and substantially filling the grout receiving space (32) with non-shrink grout (34).

Abstract: An optical disk drive adopting an optical disk as a recording medium is provided The optical disk drive includes an adjusting mechanism on a deck to adjust phase and tilt The adjusting mechanism includes a phase adjusting device which is installed on the deck, for supporting one end of at least one of first and second shafts to adjust the phase, and a complex adjusting device which is rotatably installed on the deck, for supporting the other end of the at least one shaft to adjust the tilt and phase Therefore, the optical disk drive can store a large amount of information in a disk by a highly precise deck mechanism and be stably installed regardless of the installation direction and position thereof Further, a tray can be ejected without electric power and simple and convenient assembling and maintenance thereof are guaranteed

Abstract: The outer and inner side decks of a curved escalator are connected at its inner end to the balustrade, and includes a horizontal top panel which extends outwardly away from the balustrade, and outer vertical curved in plan side panel which extends downwardly from the outer edge of the top panel. These deck panels are secured to inner support components of the deck. The corner of the deck where the top and side panels meet is covered with a plastic trim molding which covers the screws fastening the side panel to the underlying supports, and which snaps onto catches which are hidden on the underside of the top panel. An attractive corner is thus formed free of unsightly screws, bolts, or other fasteners.

Abstract: A deck apparatus is disclosed containing interengagement means between an inflatable boat and a plurality of adjacent deck elements which are joined by a resilient link. The interengagement means prevent relative vertical movements of the adjacent deck elements and substantially all angular movement in one direction, but freely permit relative angular movement in the other direction whereby the adjacent deck elements may be folded on top of one another with the link allowing in principle, 180 degrees of relative rotation.

Abstract: A two blade mower deck for lawn and garden tractors having a continuous height adjustment feature. The mower deck includes a primary cutting blade and a smaller diameter secondary cutting blade. The secondary cutting blade is positioned to the side and slightly to the rear of the primary blade so that the cutting swaths of the blades overlap when the tractor moves forward. A continuous roller across the rear end of the mower deck follows the ground contour to prevent scalping or uneven cutting. The vertical position of the roller relative to the mower deck housing can be continuously adjusted by a crank handle to permit continuous adjustment of the cutting height.