• Coupled systems mechanics
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• v.10 no.1
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• pp.1-19
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• 2021

Composite nature of the masonry structures in general causes complex and non-linear behaviour, especially in intense vibration conditions. The presence of different types and forms of structural elements and different materials is a major problem for the analysis of these type of structures. For this reason, the analysis of the behaviour of masonry structures requires a combination of experimental tests and non-linear mathematical modelling. The famous UNESCO Heritage Old Bridge in Mostar was selected as an example for the analysis of the global behaviour of reinforced stone arch masonry bridges. As part of the experimental research, a model of the Old Bridge was constructed in a scale of 1:9 and tested on a shaking table platform for different levels of seismic excitation. Non-linear mathematical modelling was performed using a combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM), including the effect of connection elements. The paper presents the horizontal displacement of the top of the arch and the failure mechanism of the Old Bridge model for the experimental and the numerical phase, as well as the comparison of the results. This research provided a clearer insight into the global behaviour of stone arch masonry structures reinforced with steel clamps and steel dowels, which is significant for the structures classified as world cultural heritage.

• Computers and Concrete
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• v.33 no.6
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• pp.659-670
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• 2024

The mechanical behaviour of layered concrete samples containing an internal crack was numerically studied by modelling the geo-mechanical specimens in the particle flow code in two dimensions (PFC2D). The numerical modelling software was calibrated with the experimental results of the Brazilian tensile strengths gained from the laboratory disc-type specimens. Then, the samples with the bedding layers and internal notch were numerically simulated with PFC2D under uniaxial compressive loading. In each specimen, the layers' thickness was 10 mm but the layer's inclination angle was changed to 0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120° and 150°. Of course, the layers'interfaces are considered to have very low strengths. The internal notch was kept at 3 cm in length however, its inclination angle was changed to 0°, 40°, 60° and 90°. Therefore, a total, of 24 numerical models were made to study the failure mechanism of the layered concrete samples. Considering these results, it has been concluded that the inclination angles of both internal crack and bedding layers affect the failure mechanism and uniaxial compressive strength of the concrete.

• 한국지구물리탐사학회:학술대회논문집
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• 2003.11a
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• pp.244-251
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• 2003

A two-dimensional BEM code, $FRACOD^{2D}$, was applied to simulate fracture initiation and propagation processes in a rock pillar during an in situ heater test of a rock pillar planned at the $\"{A}sp\"{o}$ Underground Rock laboratory of SKB, in Southern Sweden. To take the advantage of conventional BEM for simulating fracturing processes, but without efforts for domain integral transformation, a hybrid approach is developed to simulate the fracturing processes in rock pillar under coupled thermo-mechanical loading. The code FRACOD was used for simulating the fracture initiation and propagation processes with its boundary tractions reflecting the effects of the initial and redistributed thermomechanical stresses in the domain of interest at multiple excavation and heating steps were produced by a special algorithm of stress inversion, based on resultant thermo-mechanical stress fields at each excavation and heat loading step by a FEM code without considering fracturing processes. This hybrid approach can take the advantages of both types of numerical methods and avoids their shortcomings for fracturing process simulation and domain effects, respectively. In this paper, we present the hybrid approach for the stress, displacements, and fracturing processes at sequential excavation and heating steps of the in situ heater test as a predictive modelling, the formulation of the fracturing models and the predictive results. Two sections of borehole depth, 0.5 m and 1.5 m below the tunnel floor are considered. The pillar area is modelled with the FRACOD and the stress field produced by excavation and heating is transferred with corresponding boundary stresses. From the modelling results, the degree of fracturing and damage are evaluated for 120 days of heating. Dominated shear fracturing in the vicinity of the central pillar was observed from the models at both sections, but spalled area appears to be limited. Based on the modelling results, a sensitivity study for the effect of pre-existing fractures in the vicinity of the holes is also conducted, and the initiation and evolution of EDZ around the deposition holes are investigated using this particular numerical technique.

• Computers and Concrete
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• v.25 no.1
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• pp.67-73
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• 2020

Traditionally used analytical approach to predict the fatigue failure of reinforced concrete (RC) structure is generally conservative and has certain limitations. The nonlinear finite element method (FEM) offers less expensive solution for fatigue analysis with sufficient accuracy. However, the conventional implicit dynamic analysis is very expensive for high level computation. Whereas, an explicit dynamic analysis approach offers a computationally operative modelling to predict true responses of a structural element under periodic loading and might be perfectly matched to accomplish long life fatigue computations. Hence, this study simulates the fatigue behaviour of RC beams with finite element (FE) assemblage presenting a simplified explicit dynamic numerical solution to show computer aided fatigue behaviour of RC beam. A commercial FEM package, ABAQUS has been chosen for this complex modelling. The concrete has been modelled as a 8-node solid element providing competent compression hardening and tension stiffening. The steel reinforcements are simulated as two-node truss elements comprising elasto-plastic stress-strain behaviour. All the possible nonlinearities are duly incorporated. Time domain analysis has been adopted through an automatic Newmark-β time incremental technique. The program consists of twelve RC beams to visualize the real behaviour during fatigue process and to obtain the reliability of the study. Both the numerical and experimental results indicate a redistribution of stresses along the time and damage accumulation of beam which severely affect the serviceability and ultimate capacity of RC beam. The output of the FEM analysis demonstrates good match with the experimental consequences which affirm the efficacy of the computer aided model. The controlled fatigue damage evolution at service fatigue load limits makes the FE model an efficient tool in predicting high cycle fatigue behaviour of RC structures.

• Proceedings of the Korean Geotechical Society Conference
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• 2010.03a
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• pp.852-855
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• 2010

Numerical simulations for large scale triaxial tests with large diameter rockfill materials are conducted using distinct element method. For generation of compacted assembly with specific grain size distribution and initial material porosity, the clump logic method and expansion of generated particles are adapted. With micro parameters which are chosen by calibration process, discrete particle modelling of triaxial test in case of other confining stress and cyclic loading condition were conducted. Also numerical simulations of fluid injection into particulate materials were conducted to observe cavity initiation and propagation using distinct element method. The fluid scheme solves the continuity and Navior-Stokes equations numerically, then derives pressure and velocity vectors for fixed grid by considering the existence of particles within the fluid cell.

• Journal of Industrial Technology
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• v.26 no.A
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• pp.109-117
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• 2006

This study is an numerical study of predicting the behavior of anchor embedded in weathered rocks, subjected to uplift loads, about ultimate pullout capacity and the failure mechanism. Factors influencing the behavior of anchors were investigated by reviewing the data about in-situ anchor tests performing numerical modelling with changing the bondage length of anchor, diameter of anchor body and diameter of tenden, and by Correlations between those factors were evaluated to apply them to predict the behavior of anchors. As results of numerical analysis, a linear relationship between bondage length, diameter of anchor body and diameter of tenden with ultimate pullout capacity was obtained on the one hand, from the result of numerical analysis changing the Young's modulus of weathered rock, this parameter was found to inflence to load-displacement and ultimate pullout capacity within the range of 10%, which was mot so significant to affect.

• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
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• v.38 no.3
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• pp.283-300
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• 2011

A new conception of fundamental tasks in dynamics of the bridge-track-train systems (BTT), with the aim to evaluate moving load's models adequacy, has been developed. The 2D physical models of BTT systems, corresponding to the fundamental tasks, have been worked out taking into account one-way constraints between the moving unsprung masses and the track. A method for deriving the implicit equations of motion, governing vibrations of BTT systems' models, as well as algorithms for numerical integration of these equations, leading to the solutions of high accuracy and relatively short times of simulations, have been also developed. The derived equations and formulated algorithms constitute the basis for numerical simulation of vibrations of the considered systems.

• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
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• v.75 no.3
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• pp.283-294
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• 2020

In general, the study of a high-rise building's behaviour when subjected to a horizontal load (wind or earthquake) is carried out through numerical modelling with finite elements method. This paper proposes a new, original approach based on the use of a multi-beams model. By redistributing bending and axial stiffness of horizontal elements (beams and slabs) along vertical elements, it becomes possible to produce a system of differential equations able to represent the structural behaviour of the whole building. In this paper this approach is applied to the study of bending behaviour in a 37-storey building (Torre Pontina, Latina, Italy) with a regular reinforced concrete structure. The load considered is the wind, estimated in accordance with Italian national technical rules and regulations. To simplify the explanation of the approach, the wind load was considered uniform on the height of building with a value equal to the average value of the wind load distribution. The system of differential equations' is assessed numerically, using Matlab, and compared with the obtainable solution from a finite elements model along with the obtainable solutions via classical Euler-Bernoulli beam theory. The comparison carried out demonstrates, in the case study examined, an excellent approximation of structural behaviour.

• Advances in aircraft and spacecraft science
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• v.5 no.2
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• pp.205-223
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• 2018

During launch a spacecraft is subjected to a variety of dynamical loads transmitted through the launcher to spacecraft interface or air-born transmission excitations in the acoustic pressure field inside the fairing. As a result, spacecraft are tested on ground to ensure and demonstrate the global integrity of the structure against these loads, to screen the flight hardware for quality of workmanship and to validate mathematical models. This paper addresses the numerical modelling and simulation of the low frequency sine and random vibration tests performed on electrodynamic shaker facilities to comprise the mechanical-borne transmission loads through the launcher to spacecraft interface. Consequently, the paper reviews techniques and methodologies to derive a reliable and representative coupled virtual vibration testing simulation environment based on experimental data. These technologies are explored with the main objectives to ensure a stable, reliable and accurate control while testing. As a result, the use of the derived simulation models in combination with the added value of improved control and signal processing algorithms can lead to a safer and smoother vibration test control of the entire environmental test campaign.

• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
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• v.54 no.2
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• pp.319-336
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• 2015

Life cycle performance of corrosion affected RC structures is an important and challenging issue for effective infrastructure management. The accurate condition assessment of corroded RC structures mainly depends on the effective evaluation of deterioration occurring in the structures. Structural performance deterioration caused by reinforcement corrosion is a complex phenomenon which is generally uncertain and non-decreasing. Therefore, a stochastic modelling such as the gamma process can be an effective tool to consider the temporal uncertainty associated with performance deterioration. This paper presents a time-dependent reliability analysis of corrosion affected RC structures associated bond strength degradation. Initially, an analytical model to evaluate cracking in the concrete cover and the associated loss of bond between the corroded steel and the surrounding cracked concrete is developed. The analytical results of cover surface cracking and bond strength deterioration are examined by experimental data available. Then the verified analytical results are used for the stochastic deterioration modelling, presented here as gamma process. The application of the proposed approach is illustrated with a numerical example. The results from the illustrative example show that the proposed approach is capable of assessing performance of the bond strength of concrete structures affected by reinforcement corrosion during their lifecycle.