Experimental Evaluation of Instantaneous Optimal Algorithms for Structural Control

Keywords: Optimal Control, Seismic Simulation, Building Structures, Control Algorithms, Dynamic Loads, Structural Control, Seismic Excitation, Closed-Loop Control, Open-Loop Control, and Open-Closed-Loop Control.

Abstract: In a continuing effort to determine the feasibility of applying optimal control to building structures, a comprehensive experimental study was carried out using a standardized structural model under base excitation supplied by the Seismic Simulator at SUNY/Buffalo. Based upon computer simulated and experimental results, this report presents a comparison of efficiencies of several optimal control algorithms using instantaneous optimal criteria, including time delay compensation. All investigations were done under similar conditions to permit a systematic evaluation of efficiency. Comparisons were also made between analytical and experimental results and between instantaneous control algorithms and classical closed-loop linear feedback. Conclusions are drawn regarding relative merits of control algorithms considered under varying conditions.