Implementation and verification of real-time hybrid simulation (RTHS) using a shake table for research and education

In this study, as a state of the art testing method, real-time hybrid simulation (RTHS) is implemented and verified with a shake table for education and research. As an application example, the dynamic behavior of a tuned liquid damper (TLD)-structure system is investigated. RTHS is a practical and economical experimental technique which complements the strengths of computer simulation with physical testing. It separates the test structure into two substructures where part of the structure for which a reliable analytical model is not available is tested physically (experimental substructure) and coupled together with the analytical model of the remaining structure (analytical substructure). The implementation of RTHS involves challenges in accurate control of the experimental substructure as well as the synchronization of the signals. The details of the hardware and the software developed and the steps taken to improve the controller are discussed in this paper so that the implementation of RTHS is properly introduced. The accuracy has been verified using tracking indicators as well as using the response obtained from a spring-mass oscillator and TLD system. The shake table used in this study is available in over 100 universities around the world. In this paper, the implementation of RTHS is provided with sufficient details to enable easy introduction of this testing method wherever a similar shake table is available. This additional functionality will not only provide a new research tool, but it will also facilitate classroom demonstrations to improve how students understand new concepts in structural dynamics and earthquake engineering.