Connecting parameters optimization on unsymmetrical twin-tower structure linked by sky-bridge

Based on a simplified 3-DOF model of twin-tower structure linked by a sky-bridge,the frequency response functions,the displacement power spectral density(PSD)functions,and the time-averaged total vibration energy were derived,by assuming the white noise as the earthquake excitation.The effects of connecting parameters,such as linking stiffness ratio and linking damping ratio,on the structural vibration responses were then studied,and the optimal connecting parameters were obtained to minimize the vibration energy of either the independent monomer tower or the integral structure.The influences of sky-bridge elevation position on the optimal connecting parameters were also discussed.Finally,the distribution characteristics of the top displacement PSD and the structural responses,excited by El Centro,Taft and artificial waves,were compared in both frequency and time domain.It is found that the connecting parameters at either end of connection interactively affect the responses of the towers.The optimal connecting parameters can greatly improve the damping connections on their seismic reduction effectiveness,but are unable to reduce the seismic responses of the towers to the best extent simultaneously.It is also indicated that the optimal connecting parameters derived from the simplified 3-DOF model are applicable for two multi-story structures linked by a sky-bridge with dampers.The seismic reduction effectiveness obtained varies from 0.3 to 1.0 with different sky-bridge mass ratio.The displacement responses of the example structures are reduced by approximately 22% with sky-bridge connections.

Analysing the Influencing Factors of a Postgenetic Subsidence Doline’s Development Using Model Experiments

The subsidence dolines are the most common surface forms of the concealed karsts.One type of these dolines is the suffosion doline.In this model experiment the influential role of these kind of dolines’development factors were analyzed.The aim of the study was to determine the significance of the parameters(cover thickness,secondary porosity of the bedrock,chimney diameter,grain size)that influence the development of a suffosion doline.To study the influencing factors numerous(162)experiments were made with different parameters,in a manner that during the experiments we changed only one parameter,so the effects of it would be detectable from the final solution.These measurements were made with the use of a special tool,designed and built for this purpose.According to the data we gained from the model experiments,the development of a suffosion doline is influenced by many parameters.If these parameters are in an optimal connection to each other,a suffosion doline may appear on the surface.Knowing these parameters of the covered karstic depressions lets us estimate other parameters that may influence the development of the subsidence dolines.