Date of Completion

1-24-2013

Embargo Period

1-25-2013

Advisors

Michael Accorsi; Shinae Jang

Field of Study

Civil Engineering

Degree

Master of Science

Open Access

Open Access

Abstract

In prior research, the MR damper's dynamic characteristics are typically modeled in the MATLAB/Simulink environment. Creating a structural model with nonlinear material properties, however, may be challenging in the MATLAB/Simulink environment without approximating the material behavior and neglecting effects such as P-∆ or panel zone behavior. More behaviorally accurate models of these structures can be produced using nonlinear finite element analysis tools such as Abaqus, OpenSees or ZuesNL. These analysis tools, however, are not traditionally used to model the complex nonlinear and controllable behavior of MR dampers, nor their associated control algorithms. One solution is to facilitate communication between these two tools, a MATLAB/Simulink model of an MR damper and an Abaqus, OpenSees or ZuesNL finite element model of a building structure. In this manner, each component is able to be modeled in its preferred environment and these components are able to communicate the necessary information throughout the simulation. This solution enables a Multiplatform Analysis (MPA) to test control strategies using MR dampers. This thesis describes the formulation of a communication protocol between the MATLAB/Simulink MR damper model and a finite element building structure model. This thesis demonstrates, for seismic applications, the application of this MPA technique to a small scale MR damper model and simple linear structure, validates the MPA technique with experimental results from a real-time hybrid test of a 2kN MR damper and two-story small-scale building, and finally applies the MPA technique to a large scale MR damper model and a more complex, nonlinear reinforced concrete structure.

Major Advisor

Richard Christenson

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