NEHRP Clearinghouse
- Title
- Theory and Application of Experimental Model Analysis in Earthquake Engineering.
- File
- PB82122409.pdf
- Author(s)
- Krawinkler, H.; Moncarz, P. D.
- Source
- National Science Foundation, Washington, DC., June 1981, 274 p.
- Identifying Number(s)
- 50
- Abstract
- The feasibility and limitations of small-scale model studies in earthquake engineering and practice are summarized. Emphasis is placed on dynamic modeling theory; a study of the mechanical properties of model materials; the development of model construction techniques; and an evaluation of the accuracy of prototype response prediction through model case studies on components and simple structures. The basics of similitude theory and its application to the modeling of dynamically excited structures are reviewed and similitude laws for various types of models are developed. Materials for modeling of steel and reinforced concrete structures are examined with regard to cyclic load effects. Systematic material testing procedures are developed for the investigation of alternative model materials. Also, problems encountered in the construction of models are identified and recommendations are suggested to correct them. The research demonstrates that model analysis can be used in many cases to obtain quantitative information on the seismic behavior of complex structures which cannot be analyzed confidently by conventional techniques.
- Keywords
- Earthquake resistant structures; Dynamic loads; Steel structures; Model tests; Dynamic response; Earthquake engineering; Concrete structures; Earthquakes; Dynamic structural analysis