Dynamic Performance Characteristics of Pre-Stressed Cable RC Truss Floor System under Human-Induced Loads

Excessive floor vibrations in slender structural systems due to human activity are becoming more prevalent. This may result in serviceability problems such as discomfort to occupants and even subsequent public panic. This paper describes the experimental and analytical studies on the vibration performance of a long-span pre-stressed cable RC truss (PCT) floor system, along with an extensive comparison between the present results and the current vibration design criteria used in the USA and China. The dynamic responses of this floor system under heel-drop, falling-into-seats, and jumping loads were obtained through on-site tests. The test results show good agreement in natural frequencies of the PCT floor system with others, but there are obvious differences in peak accelerations and damping ratios. A method based on the classical plate theory was adopted to determine the fundamental frequency of the system. Dynamic magnification factors (DMFs) under different loads were calculated using the inversion technique and then compared with the results available from others. Some of the conclusions achieved may be incorporated into the structural design of the system of concern to improve safety and serviceability. They can also serve as the basis for developing the relevant design guideline.