LLDF as per different design codes Canadian: Lateral distribution of live loads in the Canadian Highway Bridge Design

Code (2000) is based on dividing the live load equally between all girders, and then modifying the equal distribution using a factor computed using the bridge properties and a method derived from orthotropic plate theory. A slightly different factor is used for shear and flexure. Excluding timber bridges, there are only two different categorizations of bridges, shallow superstructure and multispine. With the exception of timber bridges, almost all other bridge types fit into one of these categories. Each category has a different distribution factor for the ultimate and serviceability limit states and the fatigue and vibration limit states. The shear and moment modification factors are computed from simple equations selected from a table based on span length and the number of lanes loaded.

Japanese: The concept of lateral distribution factor is not used in the current Japanese bridge design practice. According to the Japanese Bridge Design Code (66), a stringer/floor beam/main girder structure is generally modeled as a grillage system with a consideration of effective width of deck slab. The live loads are then applied and distributed to stringer/floor beam/girder by performing grillage model analysis. The Japanese Bridge Design Code specifies the live load applications in detail.