• Advances in Computational Design
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• v.7 no.3
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• pp.229-251
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• 2022

In 2017, an intraplate earthquake of Mw 7.1 occurred 120 km from Mexico City (CDMX). Most collapsed structural buildings stroked by the earthquake were flat slab systems joined to reinforced concrete (RC) columns, unreinforced masonry, confined masonry, and dual systems. This article presents the simulated response of an actual six-story RC frame building with masonry infill walls that did not collapse during the 2017 earthquake. It has a structural system similar to that of many of the collapsed buildings and is located in a high seismic amplification zone. Five 3D numerical models were used in the study to model the seismic response of the building. The building dynamic properties were identified using an ambient vibration test (AVT), enabling validation of the building's finite element models. Several assumptions were made to calibrate the numerical model to the properties identified from the AVT, such as the presence of adjacent buildings, variations in masonry properties, soil-foundation-structure interaction, and the contribution of non-structural elements. The results showed that the infill masonry wall would act as a compression strut and crack along the transverse direction because the shear stresses in the original model (0.85 MPa) exceeded the shear strength (0.38 MPa). In compression, the strut presents lower stresses (3.42 MPa) well below its capacity (6.8 MPa). Although the non-structural elements were not considered to be part of the lateral resistant system, the results showed that these elements could contribute by resisting part of the base shear force, reaching a force of 82 kN.

• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
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• v.80 no.6
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• pp.645-655
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• 2021

Performance-based reliability analysis is a practical approach to investigate the seismic performance and stochastic nonlinear response of structures considering a random process. This is significant due to the uncertainties involved in every aspect of the analysis. Therefore, the present study aims to evaluate the performance-based reliability within a stochastic finite element (FE) framework for reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls that are considered as one of the most essential elements of structures. To accomplish this purpose, deterministic FE analyses are conducted for both squat and slender shear walls to validate numerical models through experimental results. The presented numerical analysis is performed by using the ABAQUS FE program. Afterwards, a random-effects investigation is carried out to consider the influence of different random variables on the lateral load-top displacement behavior of RC members. Using these results and through utilizing the Monte-Carlo simulation method, stochastic nonlinear analyses are also performed to generate random FE models based on input parameters and their probabilistic distributions. In order to evaluate the reliability of RC walls, failure probabilities and corresponding reliability indices are calculated at life safety and collapse prevention levels of performance as suggested by FEMA 356. Moreover, based on reliability indices, capacity reduction factors are determined subjected to shear for all specimens that are designed according to the ACI 318 Building Code. Obtained results show that the lateral load and the compressive strength of concrete have the highest effects on load-displacement responses compared to those of other random variables. It is also found that the probability of shear failure for the squat wall is slightly lower than that for slender walls. This implies that 𝛽 values are higher in a non-ductile mode of failure. Besides, the reliability of both squat and slender shear walls does not change significantly in the case of varying capacity reduction factors.

• Computers and Concrete
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• v.28 no.6
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• pp.533-547
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• 2021

Calculating the shear capacity of slender reinforced concrete beams without shear reinforcement was the subject of numerous studies, where the eternal problem of developing a single relationship that will be able to predict the expected shear capacity is still present. Using experimental results to extrapolate formulae was so far the main approach for solving this problem, whereas in the last two decades different research studies attempted to use artificial intelligence algorithms and available data sets of experimentally tested beams to develop new models that would demonstrate improved prediction capabilities. Given the limited number of available experimental databases, these studies were numerically restrained, unable to holistically address this problem. In this manuscript, a new approach is proposed where a numerically generated database is used to train machine-learning algorithms and develop an improved model for predicting the shear capacity of slender concrete beams reinforced only with longitudinal rebars. Finally, the proposed predictive model was validated through the use of an available ACI database that was developed by using experimental results on physical reinforced concrete beam specimens without shear and compressive reinforcement. For the first time, a numerically generated database was used to train a model for computing the shear capacity of slender concrete beams without stirrups and was found to have improved predictive abilities compared to the corresponding ACI equations. According to the analysis performed in this research work, it is deemed necessary to further enrich the current numerically generated database with additional data to further improve the dataset used for training and extrapolation. Finally, future research work foresees the study of beams with stirrups and deep beams for the development of improved predictive models.

• Geomechanics and Engineering
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• v.31 no.3
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• pp.249-263
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• 2022

The specially-shaped Polycrystalline Diamond Compact (PDC) cutter is widely used in drill bit design due to its advantages of high rock cutting efficiency, strong impact resistance and long service life in hard and abrasive formation drilling. A detailed understanding of rock cutting behavior of worn specially-shaped PDC cutter is essential to improve the drilling efficiency and decrease the drilling costs. In this paper, the theoretical models of two new principles (loading performance (LP) and cutting performance (CP)) are derived for evaluating the cutting process of worn specially-shaped cutter, the theoretical models consider the factors, such as cutter geometry, aggressiveness, stress state, working life, and rock cutting efficiency. Besides, the numerical model of heterogeneous granite is developed using finite element method combined with Voronoi tessellation, the LP and CP of 12 kinds of worn specially-shaped PDC (SPDC) cutters are analyzed. The results found that the mechanical specific energy (MSE) of worn cutters first increase and then decrease with increasing the cutting depth, and the MSE increase with the increase of back rake angle except for Conical cutter and Wedge-shaped cutter. From the perspective of CP, the worn PDC cutters are more suitable for the smaller cutting depths, and the back rake angle has little effect on the CP of the specially-shaped worn PDC cutters. Conical cutter, Saddle-shaped cutter and Ellipse-shaped cutter have the highest CP value, while Rhombus-shaped cutter, Convex cutter and Wedge-shaped cutter have the lowest value in selecting cutters. This research leads to an enhanced understanding of rock-breaking mechanisms of worn SPDC cutters, and provides the basis to select of specially-shaped PDC cutters for the specific target formation.

• Steel and Composite Structures
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• v.50 no.6
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• pp.675-688
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• 2024

Cold-formed steel (CFS) is prone to buckling failure under loading. Lightweight concrete (LC) made of lightweight aggregate has light weight and excellent thermal insulation performance. However, concrete is brittle in nature which is why different materials have been used to improve this inherent behavior of concrete. The distortional buckling (DB) performance of cold-formed steel-lightweight concrete (CFS-LC) composite columns was investigated in this paper. Firstly, the compressive strength test of foam concrete (FC) and ceramsite concrete (CC) was carried out. The performance of the CFS-LC members was investigated. The test results indicated that the concrete-filled can effectively control the DB of the members. Secondly, finite element (FE) models of each test specimen were developed and validated with the experimental tests followed by extensive parametric studies using numerical analysis based on the validated FE models. The results show that the thickness of the steel and the strength of the concrete-filled were the main factors on the DB and bearing capacity of the members. Finally, the bearing capacity of the test specimens was calculated by using current codes. The results showed that the design results of the AIJ-1997 specification were closer to the experimental and FE values, while other results of specifications were conservative.

• Journal of Dental Rehabilitation and Applied Science
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• v.24 no.2
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• pp.213-230
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• 2008

The aim of this study was to analyze the initial movement and the stress distribution of each tooth and periodontal ligament during the lingual lever-arm retraction of 6 maxillary incisors using FEA. Two kinds of finite element models were produced: 2-properties model (simple model) and 24-properties model (multi model) according to the material property assignment. The subject was an adult male of 23 years old. The DICOM images through the CT of the patient were converted into the 3D image model of a skull using the Mimics (version 10.11, Materialise's interactive Medical Image Control System, Materialise, Belgium). After series of calculating, remeshing, exporting, importing process and volume mesh process was performed, FEA models were produced. FEA models are consisted of maxilla, maxillary central incisor, lateral incisor, canine, periodontal ligaments and lingual traction arm. The boundary conditions fixed the movements of posterior, sagittal and upper part of the model to the directions of X, Y, Z axis respectively. The model was set to be symmetrical to X axis. Through the center of resistance of maxilla complex, a retraction force of 200g was applied horizontally to the occlusal plane. Under this conditions, the initial movements and stress distributions were evaluated by 3D FEA. In the result, the amount of posterior movement was larger in the multi model than in the simple model as well as the amount of vertically rotation. The pattern of the posterior movement in the central incisors and lateral incisors was controlled tipping movement, and the amount was larger than in the canine. But the amount of root movement of the canine was larger than others. The incisor rotated downwardly and the canines upwardly around contact points of lateral incisor and canine in the both models. The values of stress are similar in the both simple and multi model.

• Geophysics and Geophysical Exploration
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• v.14 no.2
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• pp.164-175
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• 2011

Using natural electromagnetic (EM) fields at low frequencies, magnetotelluric (MT) surveys can investigate conductivity structures of the deep subsurface and thus are used to explore geothermal energy resources and investigate proper sites for not only geological $CO_2$ sequestration but also enhanced geothermal system (EGS). Moreover, marine MT data can be used for better interpretation of marine controlled-source EM data. In the interpretation of MT data, MT modeling schemes are important. This study improves a three dimensional (3D) MT modeling algorithm which uses edge finite elements. The algorithm computes magnetic fields by solving an integral form of Faraday's law of induction based on a finite difference (FD) strategy. However, the FD strategy limits the algorithm in computing vertical magnetic fields for a topographic model. The improved algorithm solves the differential form of Faraday's law of induction by making derivatives of electric fields, which are represented as a sum of basis functions multiplied by corresponding weightings. In numerical tests, vertical magnetic fields for topographic models using the improved algorithm overcome the limitation of the old algorithm. This study recomputes induction vectors and tippers for a 3D hill and valley model which were used for computation of the responses using the old algorithm.

• The korean journal of orthodontics
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• v.30 no.2 s.79
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• pp.127-142
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• 2000

This study have been carried out to find out the mechnical effect of Multiloop Edgewise Arch Wire(MEAW) making use of the finite element method. The tip back bend of MEAW taken in this analysis is $5^{\circ},\;10{\circ}\;and\;15{\circ}$. In addition, Class II or up & down elastic is applied to find out stress distribution and their values in PDL. A adult male of normal occlusion was selected to create the models of teeth and PDL. And the model of MEAW was also created using commercial finite element code (ANSYS version 5.2). The MEAW is forcibly engaged with a class II or up & down elastic, to determine the initial stress generated in PDL. Comparing the compressive and tensile stress at each reference-planes, following results are obtained. 1. When a MEAW of $5^{\circ},\;10{\circ}\;15{\circ}$ tip back bend was engaged with Class II or up & down elastic, the distribution of compressive, tensile stress in entire PDL is similar in each case. 2. The values of compressive and tensile stress in PDL is higher in $15{\circ}$ tip back bend case than in $10{\circ}\;or\;15{\circ}$ tip back bend case. 3. In the distal PDL of 1st and 2nd molar, compressive stress appears. The compressive area is more wide and its values is higher in PDL of 2nd molar than those in 1st molar. The compressive area and its values become more wide and higher according to the increase of the tip back bend. 4. The values of compressive stress are comparatively smaIIer in PDL of molars than those in premolars. 5. Comparing class II and up & down elastic case, tensile stress values in anterior teeth PDL are smaller md their distribution is more wide in up & down elastic case than class If elastic case. On another hand, there is no difference in distribution and stress values in PDL of posterior teeth between two cases. 6. Comparing the tensile area in PDL of anterior teeth, tensile stress values are maximum in PDL of canine.

• International Journal of Highway Engineering
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• v.11 no.2
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• pp.141-149
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• 2009

This study was conducted to investigate the causes that induce the T-shape cracks at the joints in the jointed concrete pavements(JCPs). The finite element models of JCP including dowel bars were developed and the stress distribution in the slab was investigated under environmental loads. To investigate the effect of dowel bars on the transverse stresses at the joints that induce the T-shape cracks, the slab curling behavior was analyzed with and without dowel bars. In addition, the stress concentration was investigated when the dowel bar was not installed at the mid-depth of the slab. The results of this study showed that the transverse stresses were not affected by the dowel bars if the dowel bars were installed at the mid-depth of the slab. However, if the dowel bars were not installed at the mid-depth, the transverse stresses were concentrated at the dowel bar locations when the slab curled. The stress concentration was dependent on the contact characteristics between the dowel bar and concrete, and was significantly large when the dowel bar not installed at the mid-depth was located far from the edge of the slab. Therefore, to mitigate T-shape cracking in JCP, dowel bars should be very carefully installed and leveled at the proper locations.

• The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics
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• v.29 no.3
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• pp.141-170
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• 1991

This study was to analyze the displacement and the magnitude and mode of distribution of the stresses in the lower overdenture, the mucous membrane, the abutment teeth and the mandibular supporting bone when various abutment designs were subjected to different loading schemes. For this study, the two-dimensional finite element method was used. The models of overdenture and mandibe with the canine and the second premolar remaining, were fabricated. In the first design, a 1 mm space was prepared between the denture and the dome abutment with the height of 2 mm(OS). In the second design, a contact between the denture and the occlusal third of the dome abutment with the hight of 2 mm was prepared(OC). In the third design, a 0.5 mm space was prepared between the denture and 8 degree tapered cylindrical abutments with the height of 7 mm(TS). In the fourth design, a contact between the denture and the occlusal two thirds of the conical abutments with the height of 7 mm was prepared(TC). In order to represent the same physiological condition as the fixed areas of the mandible under loading schemes, the eight nodes which lie at the mandibular angle, the coronoid process and the mandibular condyle were assumed to be fixed. Each model was loaded with a magnitude of 10 Kgs on the first molar region (P1) and 7 Kgs on the central incisor region (P2) in a vertical direction. The force of 10 Kgs was then applied distributively from the first premolar to the second molar of each motel in a vertical direction (P3). The results were as follows: 1. The vertical load on the central incisor region(P2) produced the higher displacement and stress concentration than that on the posterior region(P1, P3). 2. The case of space between abutment and denture base produced higher displacement than that of contact, and the case of long abutment produced higher displacement than that of short abutment because of low rigidity of denture base. 3. The magnitude of the torque and vertical force to the abutment teeth and the stress distribution to the denture base was higher in the telescope coping than in the overdenture coping. 4. The vertical load on the central incisor region(P2) produced higher equivalent stress in the mandible than that on the posterior region(P1, P3). 5. The case of space between abutment and denture base produced better stress distribution to the farther abutment from the loading point than that of contact. 6. In case of sound abutment teeth, the type of telescope coping can be used, hilt in case of weak abutment, the type of overdenture coping is considered to be favorable generally.