Study-Unit Description

Study-Unit Description


CODE CVE5645

 
TITLE Structural Dynamics

 
UM LEVEL 05 - Postgraduate Modular Diploma or Degree Course

 
MQF LEVEL 7

 
ECTS CREDITS 5

 
DEPARTMENT Civil and Structural Engineering

 
DESCRIPTION This study-unit provides a general grounding in the basic principles of dynamics applied to structures, not only by focusing on the mathematics and mechanics, but also by applying the principles to practical problems, such as vibrations of structures, and aseismic design.

Study-unit Aims:

The aim of the study-unit is to provide an understanding of structural dynamics, extending from knowledge of single degree of freedom problems (SDOF) to multi-degree of freedom problems (MDOF). The study-unit aims to show how structural dynamics problems can be expressed as equivalent problems of statics, and how MDOF problems can be expressed as a series of uncoupled SDOF problems through the use of modal analysis, as well as to introduce the main numerical methods associated with the solution of the equation of motion. The study-unit finally aims to introduce practical applications of dynamics-related subjects, particularly vibrations of structures and aseismic behaviour.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Knowledge & Understanding:

By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:
- Identify sources of dynamic excitation and the underlying principles behind a number of dynamic loads on structures;
- Explain the behaviour of single degree of freedom systems under free and forced harmonic response, transient and steady state response dynamic magnification and structural damping;
- Recognize resonance in structures, and sources and magnitude of damping;
- Explain the behaviour of multi-degree of freedom systems, eigenvalues and eigenvectors;
- Discuss blast action on buildings, and the response of structural and non-structural components.

2. Skills:

By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:
- Propose appropriate dynamic modeling of beams and multi-bay and multi-storeyed framed structures, and estimate natural frequencies and natural modes of elastic vibrations;
- Analyse single degree, and multi-degree of freedom systems under free and forced excitation, transient and steady state response and resonance;
- Estimate the maximum value of significant displacements and internal forces for structures subjected to dynamic excitation, including harmonic loading, pulse loads and impact;
- Apply simplified design methods for structures under dynamic loads;
- Handle shape functions and formulate consistent element mass and stiffness matrices, and undertake dynamic analysis using direct stiffness method;
- Apply principles of dynamic behaviour to aseismic design, conscious of the concepts of uncertainty of actions, modelling techniques, energy absorption, robustness and ductility.

Main Text/s and any supplementary readings:

- Chopra,A.K., (1995), Dynamics of Structures: Theory and Applications to Earthquake Engineering, Prentice-Hall.
- Clough,R.W., Penzein,J., (1994) Dynamics of Structures.
- Craig,R.R., (1981) Structural Dynamics: An Introduction to Computer Methods, Wiley.
- Smith,J.W., Vibrations of Structures: Applications in Civil Engineering Design, Chapman Hall.
- Bachmann,H., Ammann,W., (1987), Vibrations in Structures, Structural Engineering Documents 3, IABSE AIPC UVBH.
- de Sa Caetano, E., (2007), Cable Vibrations in Cable-Stayed Bridges, Structural Engineering Documents 9, IABSE AIPC UVBH.
- Adrian Scarlat, (1996) Approximate Methods in Structural Seismic Design.
- Elghazouli, A.Y. (Ed), (2009) Seismic Design of Buildings to Eurocode 8, Spon Press, London.
- IStructE, (2010), Manual for the Design of Steel and Concrete Buildings to Eurocode 8.
- Fardis,M.N., Carvalho, E.., Elnashai, A., Faccioli, E., Pinto, P.,Plumier, A., (2005),Designer’s Guide to EN 1998-1 and En 1998-5 Eurocode 8: Design of Structures for Earthquake Resistance – General Rules, Seismic Actions, Design Rules for Buildings, Foundations and Retaining Structures, Thomas Telford, London.
- MSA EN 1998: Eurocode 8, Design of Structures for Earthquake Action, 2004.
- Smith,A.L., Hicks, S.J., Devine, P.J., (2009), Design of Floors for Vibrations: A new Approach, SCI.
- Mays,G.C., Smith,P.D.(ed) (2003), Blast Effect on Buildings, Thomas Telford.

 
STUDY-UNIT TYPE Lecture, Independent Study & Tutorial

 
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Assessment Component/s Assessment Due Sept. Asst Session Weighting
Examination (2 Hours) SEM1 Yes 100%

 
LECTURER/S Marc Bonello

 

 
The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints.
Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice.
It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2023/4. It may be subject to change in subsequent years.

https://www.um.edu.mt/course/studyunit