Equivalent oscillator approach to model vortex induced vibrations on a circular cylinder

•A numerical model able to VIV on a circular cylinder is presented.•The model parameters are defined by using a genetic algorithm-based approach•Results of the model are discussed and compared to experimental data•The idea is to define a model for VIV usable for civil applications. The paper presents a numerical model, based on the equivalent oscillator approach, able to simulate vortex induced vibrations on a circular cylinder. This model consists of a single degree of freedom mechanical system characterized by non-linear parameters that reproduce the fluid-structure interaction in time domain. A genetic algorithm approach was used in order to identify the characteristic parameters of the equivalent oscillator: obtained results are discussed and compared with wind tunnel experimental data and with a previous version of the numerical model. Comparison is performed both in terms of aerodynamic forces and oscillation amplitudes and both in steady and transient conditions.