Innovative structural components and energy-dissipation devices

Digital twin-aided testing, scan-to-model FE modelling, innovative damping devices, and seismic performance assessment of structural components and systems.

Seismic PerformanceDigital TwinEnergy Dissipation

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Innovative structural components and energy-dissipation devices

Computer vision and 3D point cloud-aided structural testing

Overview

Structural experimental testing is the critical method to evaluate new design concepts. Measuring structural response quantities such as displacements, velocities, accelerations, strain, etc., is crucial to understanding the structural behavior. Traditional contact-type sensors such as string pots and LVDT require a relatively complex instrumentation process and can be inconvenient to use in inaccessible and hard-to-reach areas. This research intends to develop and apply a digital twin approach to measure the structural response quantities in a non-contact and wireless manner. The proposed methodology integrates advanced deep learning, computer vision, point clouds, and smart mobile devices to provide an effective and convenient sensing solution for structural testing.

References

Pan, X., Xiao, Y., Yao, H., Yang, T. Y. (2023). Vision-based real-time structural vibration measurement through interactive deep-learning-based detection and tracking methods. Engineering Structures, 281, 115676.
Chen Z., Xiao Y., Pan, X., Yang T. Y., Yang W. (2023). Vision-aided nonlinear control framework for shake table tests. Canadian Conference - Pacific Conference on Earthquake Engineering (CCEE-PCEE) 2023, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Computer vision and 3D point cloud-aided finite element modelling

Overview

Finite element (FE) modeling is an essential technique to evaluate the structural response. In this project, a scan-to-model framework is proposed, which consists of automatic 3D scanning and reconstruction, point cloud processing, and mesh construction for efficient and accurate FE modeling. The proposed framework can be used to enhance the existing workflow in structural design, performance assessment, and model updating based on the as-built geometry.

References

Xie, F., Pan, X., Yang, T. Y., Ernewein, B., Li, M., Robinson, D. (2024). A computer vision and point cloud processing-based approach for seismic assessment of a tall irregular timber structure. Structures.

Innovative energy-dissipation devices: tuned mass inerter damper

Overview

In recent years, inerter systems have been adopted for vibration control of civil structures. This project proposed and extensively investigated a tuned mass inerter damper for vibration control of rigid structures that exhibit rocking behavior when subjected to ground excitations. The results revealed that with proper parameter design, the proposed damping system can effectively reduce the vibration amplitude of rocking structures under earthquake excitations.

References

Pan, X., Málaga-Chuquitaype C. (2020). Seismic control of rocking structures via external resonators. Earthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics, 49:1180-1196. (Top Cited Article, Top Downloaded Article)

Innovative energy-dissipation devices: honeycomb steel plate dampers

Overview

Steel plate dampers are relatively easy and economical to fabricate, which offers a potential seismic design and retrofit solution. The seismic energy dissipation through steel plate dampers is achieved by the shear yielding of the web portion, while the flanges remain elastic. This research investigated a specific type of steel plate dampers with honeycomb-shaped perforations. The results revealed that the honeycomb damper can provide effective energy dissipation potential with proper design of geometric properties.

References

Pan, X., Yang, T. Y. (2023). 3D vision-based out-of-plane displacement quantification for steel plate structures using structure from motion, deep learning, and point cloud processing. Computer-aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering, 38, 547–561.
Yang, T. Y., Li, T., Tobber, L., & Pan, X. (2020). Experimental and numerical study of honeycomb structural fuses. Engineering Structures, 204, 109814.
Yang, T. Y., Li, T., Tobber, L., & Pan, X. (2019). Experimental Test of Novel Honeycomb Structural Fuse. Proceedings in Civil Engineering, 3(3-4), 451-456.

Performance assessment of innovative building components and systems under seismic loads

Overview

Low-rise long-span steel structural systems are commonly used for non-residential buildings in Canada and the United States. These structures are typically designed using hot-rolled steel sections. In recent years, due to its lightweight nature, high initial stiffness, and economical advantages, cold-form steel corrugated walls (CFSCW) have been used to replace hot-rolled steel sections and other concrete sections. In this study, a novel CFSCWs without boundary frames is proposed for non-residential building applications, known as Frameless Systems.

References

Vaze, S., Yang, T. Y., Bagatini-Cachuço, F., & Pan, X. (2024). Experimental and numerical investigations of Frameless CFSCW under combined in-plane shear and axial loads. Thin-Walled Structures, 198, 111677.
Pan, X., Yang, T. Y. (2023). 3D vision-based out-of-plane displacement quantification for steel plate structures using structure from motion, deep learning, and point cloud processing. Computer-aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering, 38, 547–561.
Pan, X., Vaze, S., Xiao, Y., Tavasoli, S., Yang T.Y. (2022). Structural damage detection of steel corrugated panels using computer vision and deep learning. Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE) Conference, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada.