Numerical Modeling of Dynamic Testing System for Structural Virtual Hybrid Simulation

Hybrid testing technique is an improved method of simulating structural system response in an efficient and cost effective manner. In this methodology, the structural system is divided into two groups of substructures: the more complex substructure is tested physically in a laboratory while the rest of the system is modeled numerically in a computer. In order to investigate issues of this technique, a virtual hybrid simulation (VHS) in which all the test components are modeled numerically becomes necessary prior to conducting actual hybrid tests. In this study, VHS modeling of a cantilever column using a realistic numerical model of the dynamic testing system including a PIDF-controller, servo-hydraulic actuator, and test specimen is implemented. Comparison of the VHS results with pure OpenSees simulation of the column is presented by means of which the effect of errors such as delay and noise on the accuracy and stability of the system response is evaluated.

Keywords:

servo-hydraulic actuators , virtual hybrid simulation , delay compensation