Development of a Hybrid Simulation Computational Model for Steel Braced Frames

Hybrid simulation is an economical structural testing technique in which the critical part of the structure expected to respond in the inelastic range is tested physically whereas the rest of the structure is modelled numerically using a finite element analysis program. The article describes the development of a computational model for the hybrid simulation of the seismic collapse of a steel two-tiered braced frame structure due to column buckling. The column stability response in multi-tiered braced frames is first presented using a pure numerical model of the braced frame studied. The development of the hybrid simulation computational model is then discussed. Effects of initial out-of-straightness imperfections and axial stiffness, P-Delta analysis approach, and gravity analysis technique on the hybrid simulation results are evaluated using a numerical hybrid simulation model. Finally, the results of a continuous pseudo-dynamic hybrid simulation of the seismic response of the steel multi-tiered concentrically braced frame are presented. The test showed that failure of columns by instability is a possibility and can lead to collapse of multi-tiered braced frames, as was predicted by numerical analysis. Furthermore, suitable modeling methods are proposed for hybrid simulation of steel braced frame structures.