Optimum Response Simulation of Multidegree Systems by Pulse Excitation

Abstract

A computer algorithm is presented for the optimum selection of a series or train of force pulses for application to a continuous system. The optimized pulse train generates oscillations in a system to match within specified error bounds the responses which would be produced by a continuous loading of arbitrary nature such as earthquake excitation. This computationally efficient algorithm is applied to several examples including a model of a physical system. It is shown that it is feasible to adequately simulate the motion of a complicated system by using appropriate force pulse trains.