Localized Identification of Constructed Facilities

Abstract

A general constructed facility identification methodology that permits synthesis of localized flexibility coefficients is presented. An application of it to a region of an in‐situ concrete bridge is also described. Rigorous analytical investigation and modeling is undertaken first; dynamic testing using low stress level and easily induced impact excitation are executed next. Modal parameters except for damping ratios are identified, then the mass matrix is estimated, and then the flexibility matrix is derived. Model parameters are altered rationally; and a very good match between experimental and model flexibilities is attained. This is accomplished despite the existence of several closely spaced modes and the use of a simple identification algorithm. A static test is conducted to validate the dynamic test‐based identification. A very strong agreement is shown between static and dynamic test results. Analytical modeling, field testing, and data reduction are found to be highly interrelated tasks. Remarks on needed further research in each of these areas is presented.