Basket-handle arch

A basket-handle arch (also depressed arch or chop arch^[1]) is characterized by an intrados profile formed by a sequence of circular arcs, each tangent to its neighbors, resulting in a smooth transition between arcs. The simplest form, a three-centered arch, consists of three arc segments with distinct centers, while a five-centered arch is also commonly used.^[2] This type of arch is prevalent in architectural applications, particularly in bridge construction. The shape of a basket-handle arch resembles that of a semi-ellipse,^[3] featuring a continuous curvature that varies from the extremities of the long axis to the apex of the short axis. It is also referred to as a depressed arch or basket arch,^[4] highlighting its distinctive curvature and structural function.^[5]