Weakly Coupled Hybrid Simulation Method for Structural Testing: Theoretical Framework and Numerical Verification

Abstract

In this study, a novel method is proposed which allows for testing facilities to run hybrid simulations when the number of actuators is less than the number of the available controlled degrees of freedom. The method is based on coupling of a surrogate numerical model with a physical specimen such that the numerical model can supplement the response of a degree of freedom (DOF) that cannot be obtained from the physical specimen. This paper presents the analytical study and the theoretical framework of the proposed methodology. Additionally, a parametric study is conducted for defining the method’s applicability to various frame elements whose structural characteristics represent common frame elements. The proposed methodology of this paper is numerically verified by performing the seismic performance assessment of a typical 3-story moment resisting frame (MRF). This article concludes with the applicability figures of the proposed simulation method and the summary of the parameters that influence the applicability of the simulation method.