Abstract:Finite element analysis models were established to analyze the variable characteristics of key structural parameters of threetower suspension bridge, threetower cablestayed bridge and threetower cablestayed suspension bridge. By using ANSYS parametric design language (APDL), a calculation program was prepared to analyze the maximum deflection of boxgirders, the maximum displacement of tower and the antislide coefficient of main cable and their sensitivity to the stiffness of boxgirders and tower, the appropriate stiffness of longitudinal constrain between boxgirders and tower, risespan ratio and central buckle of main cable in consideration of the effect of geometric nonlinearity. Finally, the reasonable range of the stiffness of boxgirders and tower was determined. It is shown that the stiffness of boxgirders has little effect on suspension bridge. The stiffness of tower is the key factor that affects the structural characteristics of the bridges and the appropriate stiffness of longitudinal constrain is beneficial to the structural characteristics of the bridges. The reduction of risespan ratio or the setting of central buckle of main cable can improve the structural stiffness, but reduce the antislide capability of main cable of cable supported bridge.