PEER Reports

This report presents the second half of the discussion of a mixed experimental-computational study that aimed at investigating the structural and seismic behavior of integral bent caps in reinforced concrete (RC) box-girder bridges. The main objective of the study was to accurately estimate the contributions of the deck and soffit slabs framing into the bent cap in as-built and retrofitted RC bridge systems under the combined effect of vertical and lateral loading. In particular, the study estimated the effective flange width of the bent cap beam due to the box-girder slabs contributions...

Numerical models are a key component for methodologies used to estimate tsunami risk, and model predictions are essential for the development of Tsunami Hazard Assessments (THAs). By better understanding model bias and uncertainties and, if possible, minimizing them, a more reliable THA will result. This study compares the run-up height, inundation lines, and flow- velocity field measurements between GeoClaw and the Method of Splitting Tsunami (MOST) model predictions in the Sendai Plain. In general, run-up elevation and average inundation distance are overpredicted by the models. However...

Hybrid simulation is an experimental and computational technique that allows one to study the time evolution of a system by physically testing a subset of it while the remainder is represented by a numerical model that is attached to the physical portion via sensors and actuators. The technique allows the study of large or complicated mechanical systems while only requiring a subset of the complete system to be present in the laboratory. This results in vast cost savings as well as the ability to study systems that simply cannot be tested due to scale. However, the errors that arise from...

Under earthquake loading, bridge superstructures will in general experience both translational and rotational motions. The rotational motions arise from a number of effects, including shaking response of asymmetrical structures, wave passage effects, and ground failure including fault rupture at the bridge site. As a consequence, supporting columns may be subjected to torsion, which is often ignored in typical design practice. The degree to which torsion reduces bridge safety because of reduced lateral strength and, more importantly, because of reduced deformation capacity, is unclear....