Dr. Emad Ali Mohamed El-Dardiry :: Publications:

The paper investigates the methods for predicting floor response induced by an individual walking. A single degree of freedom (SDOF) model of a structure is developed considering the action of walking loads. The model is verified by FE modelling of a simply supported beam and a simply supported plate where the newly developed walking loads model is used, confirming a SDOF model is still a useful tool for predicting structural response under walking loads. The SDOF model is further applied to predict the response of a multi-panel concrete floor and a composite floor. Comparison between prediction of the SDOF model and the FE results and the available dynamic measurements are also given. It is concluded that the walking routes do not affect the maximum dynamic response (amplitude and pattern) of floor. The implication of the conclusion is that the walking load can be applied arbitrarily on a floor, providing it passes the centre of the floor. The dynamic responses of the FE model of the full-scale composite floor match in both amplitude and pattern with the measured dynamic responses. To predict the dynamic response of a full-scale floor using a SDOF system requires a correct representation of the floor stiffness.