Abstract
The second half of the 20th century was affected by the introduction of electronic data processing. The numerical methods appeared to be capable of solving every engineering problem. However, dealing with real problems, an appropriate numerical discretization of built structures is in many cases a difficult task, since fundamental input data concerning the actual properties of the structure, material and the mechanical boundary condition couldn’t always be met. Typical difficulties are an incomplete documentation, unknown effects of structural faults and uncertain material properties. In this paper our experience in experimental assessment of structures is described and the outcome of experimental versus numerical results is compared in several examples. This paper summarizes finally both prospects and limitations of numerical simulations of built structures and shall show that the identified load bearing capacity is strongly bound to the quality of the numerical structural model.
Highlights
“A mathematical or mechanical model may be almost perfect - it stays a model”
Possible reasons are an incomplete documentation, unknown effects of structural faults and uncertainties in the modelling of the structural system with appropriate boundary conditions. Another problem occurs if the structures have a historic design: the current technical recommendations are made for building of structures and does not meet the requirements to assess historic designs
On the basis of the experimental observation, the input parameters required for the analysis are obtained, e.g. to assess a railway bridge
Summary
“A mathematical or mechanical model may be almost perfect - it stays a model”. This citation from Prof. Even numerical assessment requires input data concerning actual material and structural properties as well as mechanical boundary conditions. These preconditions could not always be met so that not any calculated proof is successful. Possible reasons are an incomplete documentation, unknown effects of structural faults and uncertainties in the modelling of the structural system with appropriate boundary conditions Another problem occurs if the structures have a historic design: the current technical recommendations are made for building of (new) structures and does not meet the requirements to assess historic designs. The modelling of boundary conditions as well as material parameters were calibrated using experimental results and led to a more realistic folded-plate-discretisation (see Fig. 3). The following chapters give some examples how experimental data supplement numerical assessment and which advantages result
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
