The ROBUST Steel Building Response

Abstract

The ROBUST test programme describes the full-scale shaking table testing of nine different steel frame building configurations on the Tongji University shaking tables. Energy dissipation occurs by means of friction devices with asymmetric friction connections, symmetric friction connections and the resilient slip critical connection. Moment-frame, braced frame, rocking frame (with tension only dissipators), and rocking column structural configurations are considered. Building non-skeletal elements (including ceilings, piping, internal partition walls, glazed curtain walls, precast concrete panels, and building contents, are included in the later tests. The 9m tall test specimens are now under construction and testing will occur in early 2023. This paper provides a summary of recent developments and innovations in the test planning, the fully designed structure, visualizations of the structure, and the test performance of some of the elements under axial loading (as may occur in a brace) and flexural action as may occur at a column base or beam end. The testing of the overall structure will also be reported at the conference.