Seismic response analysis of submerged floating tunnel considering non-uniform excitation and flexible-support boundary effect

Abstract

In order to ensure the safety of submerged floating tunnel(SFT) during operation, it is necessary to carry out SFT response analysis under environmental loads. Given that SFTs are often constructed in valley areas situated in seismic zones, the aseismic performance of SFT needs to be investigated. However, there are important factors of non-uniform excitation and flexible-support boundary which have not been explored thoroughly. Non-uniform excitation affects the load input characteristics while flexible-support boundary affects the dynamic characteristics of structure itself. In this paper, we built a multi-point seismic wave synthesis model which fits well with the target power spectrum and a numerical response analysis model which reflects the dynamic characteristics of SFT structure well. The results based on the proposed model show that vertical non-uniform excitation can significantly increase the peak value of SFT tether tension and tube displacement with flexible-support boundary under whether artificial or natural seismic wave series input. While flexible-support boundary can availably produce vibration control effect on peak value of tether tension and tube response of whether displacement or stress indices under non-uniform wave series input. This work can provide reference for dynamic safety assessment and vibration control design of SFT to improve the development of ocean space.