Publication Date:
2004-09-14
Description:
The collapse of timber-frame houses during an earthquake was analyzed by the 2-dimensional (2D) and 3-dimensional (3D) distinct element methods (DEM). The DEM is a numerical analysis technique in which positions of elements are calculated by solving equations of motion step by step. Both individual and group behavior can be simulated. The structure is modeled as an assembly of distinct elements connected by virtual springs and dashpots where elements come into contact. A timber-frame house with simple structural elements; beams, columns, floors, and a roof, was modeled. Injury to human bodies also was considered. Human bodies modeled as circles (2D) or rectangular parallelepipeds (3D) were placed on its floors. The maximum impact acceleration on the human body during an earthquake was calculated. Injury to humans in houses was assessed by the Chest-G index and Head Injury Criteria (HIC) widely used in automobile engineering. © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Print ISSN:
0098-8847
Electronic ISSN:
1096-9845
Topics:
Architecture, Civil Engineering, Surveying
