Course content

Introduction to random vibrations. Signal processing of measurement data. System identification in civil structures from dynamic response measurements. Dynamic loads and structural responses to wind and earthquake.

Learning outcome

Structural Dynamics 2 is picking up where the basic course TKT4201 Structural Dynamics 1 finished. It is assumed that the students already have relevant knowledge of the basic principles of dynamics and the most important solution strategies that are applied to civil engineering structures.

The course comprises four main parts. The first part is an introduction to stochastic processes and random vibrations. The second part covers the processing of measurement data and system identification of civil structures. Finally, the third and fourth parts are dedicated to responses induced by wind loading and earthquakes.

Knowledge: the candidate shows knowledge and understanding of the following topics:

• Time- and frequency-domain analysis in structural dynamics
• Modelling of random processes and response of linear systems subjected to random loads
• Statistics of narrow-banded processes, up-crossing rates, and extreme values
• The use of dynamic measurements of structures for system identification
• Dynamic wind loading and linearization of random processes
• Earthquake as a dynamic load, as well as relevant standards

Skills: the candidate shows that they are able to:

• Calculate responses in structures subjected to random loads such as dynamic wind loading
• Perform numerical simulations of random processes for time-domain analysis
• Process measurement data from structures, including frequency-domain filtering, estimation of spectra, and frequency-domain decomposition

General competence: the candidate shows the ability to critically reflect on the importance of dynamic analysis for structures under various scenarios.

Digital competence: skilled use of Python for performing numerical dynamic analysis of buildings, bridges, and other relevant civil structures subjected to stochastic loads. Processing of measurement data in the form of digital time series.

Sustainability competence: the course provides the tools for dynamic analysis in design and (re-)evaluation of structures to promote safety and resource efficiency. Furthermore, the course provides a basis for collecting structural information via measurements and assessment of the structural state to aid decision-making.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars and exercises or semester assignments. The lectures and exercises are in English when students who do not speak Norwegian take the course. If the teaching is given in English, the examination papers will be given in English only. Students are free to choose Norwegian or English for the exam and the written assessments.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises and semester assignment

Recommended previous knowledge

Knowledge of dynamics equivalent to that given in the course TKT4201 Structural Dynamics 1.

Course materials

Newland, D. E: An introduction to random vibrations, spectral and wavelet analysis. Dover 2005.

Kramer, S: Geotechnical earthquake engineering. Prentice-Hall 1996.

Notes and compendium. A detailed reading list will be announced at the beginning of the course.