The finite element software framework, OpenSees, has been used by researchers
to simulate the response of structural and geotechnical systems to earthquake loading. Implementation of the Particle Finite Element Method (PFEM) has made it possible to simulate hydrodynamic forces through fluid-structure interaction (FSI) in OpenSees. To validate the FSI implementation...
The understanding and prediction how coastal wetland vegetation attenuates wave action has received renewed attention with global climate change impacts and increasing populations on coastlines. Conventional attenuation models utilize empirical drag coefficients, but these coefficients exhibit a wide range of values, and there is some uncertainty in the relative importance...
As computational power increases, so does the desire to use fluid-structure interaction (FSI) software to design complex systems and components such as fuel plates. Presently, an effort is underway to support the design and qualification of a new nuclear fuel material which is intended for applications in select, plate-type, research...
Wave energy holds great promise to be part of the alternative energy portfolio that will provide independence from fossil fuels. As wave energy converter (WEC) technologies mature, designing effective control strategies to extract maximum energy, extend device life, coordinate WEC operation within an array, or mitigate negative impacts of a...
This thesis investigates the applicability of the finite element method to model wave energy converter (WEC) hydroelasticity using LS-DYNA. The proposed methodology uses the Arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian formulation to model Fluid-Structure Interaction (FSI) between the WEC and the fluid elements. This formulation allows for time-domain modeling of higher order effects such...
The goal of this study was to develop an understanding of the nature of surge wave loading on
wood framed residential structures for a variety of building configurations and test conditions.
The objectives of the study were: (1) to measure forces on a 1/6th scale wood framed
residential structure, (2)...
Mechanical vibrations compromise the integrity of key components of thermal power plants. Without careful design, strong resonances during steady state operation can wear these components to the point of failure, leading to an unsafe situation that may force a plant to shut down. The purpose of this research is to...
During the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, numerous bridge structures were damage or destroyed. The damage to bridge systems was caused by long duration strong ground shaking, tsunami inundation forces, or both. Long duration strong ground shaking from subduction zone earthquakes and the multi-hazard scenario of combined earthquake...
Since 2004 there have been multiple devastating tsunamis around the globe triggered by large magnitude earthquakes; with the most recent being the Tohoku, Japan tsunami in March 2011. These tsunamis have caused significant loss of life and damage to the coastal communities impacted by these powerful waves. The resulting devastation...