Benchmark Problems in Structural Engineering for Mitigation of Seismic Vibrations

Many control algorithms and devices have been proposed over the last few decades, for protecting structures against severe dynamic loadings. However, because standard structures were not considered, direct comparison of different control strategies was not possible. To compare the results of passive, active and semi-active protective systems, and to direct future research efforts towards the most promising control strategies for alleviating dynamic responses, benchmark control problems on buildings and bridges have been developed . Thus, it becomes possible to study different aspects of the same problem in many countries, and in a coordinated fashion. By applying different control strategies to the testbed, and measuring the response to standardized loading, it is possible to directly compare the effectiveness of various control strategies. Findings of the studies can be combined in a rational manner that will result in a systematic presentation of results. The paper presents a review of the benchmark problems in structural engineering. Importance and need of benchmark problems is emphasized by presenting case studies on benchmark buildings and bridges.