Phase II benchmark control problem for seismic response of cable‐stayed bridges

This paper presents the problem definition for the second generation of benchmark structural control problems for cable‐stayed bridges. The goal of this study is to provide a testbed for the development of strategies for the control of cable stayed‐bridges. Based on detailed drawings of the Bill Emerson Memorial Bridge, a three‐dimensional evaluation model has been developed to represent the complex behavior of the full‐scale benchmark bridge. Phase II considers more complex structural behavior than phase I, including multi‐support and transverse excitations. Evaluation criteria are presented for the design problem that are consistent with the goals of seismic response control of a cable‐stayed bridge. Control constraints are also provided to ensure that the benchmark results are representative of a control implementation on the physical structure. Each participant in this benchmark bridge control study is given the task of defining, evaluating and reporting on their proposed control strategies. Participants should also evaluate the robust stability and performance of their resulting designs through simulation with an evaluation model which includes additional mass due to snow loads. The problem and a sample control design have been made available in the form of a set of MATLAB equations. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.