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May, Geoffrey

Civil Engineering

2013

MS

Finite element model updating is the process of modifying free parameters in a finite element model in order to minimize a uset-defined function of the difference between system measurements and model response. This thesis develops a multi-metric weighted sensitivity approach for finite element model updating in structural dynamics. The methodology allows the incorporation of simultaneous measurements of acceleration and strain, including their uncertainty, into finite element model updating. The proposed methodology is implemented in an instrumented unorthodox bridge deck located on Interstate 89, Vermont USA. The bridge instrumentation consists of 10 accelerometers and 24 strain sensors. This thesis reports on vibration data collected by DVM researchers during a period of 12 months. The main objectives of this work are: (i) To detect, using vibration measurements, the degree of composite action between the concrete deck and steel girders and (ii) based on the updated finite element model, conduct a refined trafficinduced load distribution analysis and obtain realistic estimates of the structural reliability of the bridge deck. The results of this work can be applicable to many bridges with similar non-composite decks in the US and abroad.