Hybrid Simulation of Tall Bridge with Model Updating

Design and analysis of isolation systems typically assume parallel end-plate conditions. However, rotations can be introduced when the bearings are placed in flexible structural elements. Previous research has shown that introducing rotational demands on natural and lead rubber bearings can lead to decreases in the expected horizontal stiffness of the bearing. To explore the potential effects of rotation, a bridge with tall flexible piers with lead rubber bearings is proposed to be tested using hybrid simulation. Current models typically simplify the rotational behavior and coupling of the bearing. Thus, model updating is proposed so that the rotational behavior of the bearings can be learned from a single tested bearing to update all other numerically modeled isolation bearings. This methodology can significantly reduce the cost of testing and improve the accuracy of hybrid simulation. This paper presents preliminary numerical validation of the proposed experiment so that a novel implementation can be efficiently tested using hybrid simulation.