**3. Loading System Design**

The model test was designed based on the principle of stress equivalence. Under a scale factor of 1:10, a nine-time self-weight load should be applied to the model arch. The self-weight load is approximately uniformly distributed along the longitudinal direction of the main arch ring. Theoretically, the nine-time self-weight load should also be applied as a uniformly distributed load. Considering the available space in the laboratory, operational feasibility, and finite element calculation results, a loading point was arranged every 2 m along the bridge's longitudinal direction, using 29 concentrated forces to replace the uniformly distributed load. To prevent local buckling or distortion buckling of the structure near the loading points during the construction stage, a transverse partition was set up at each loading point section.
