Vibration Investigation of the Museum Building at White Sands National Monument, New Mexico

摘要

The purpose of the study was to determine the vibration response of the museum administration building and to evaluate the sensitivity of the structure to vibrations as a possible cause of the cracking damage. This included on-site measurements of response to determine parameters such as natural resonant frequency and damping characteristics, which are important in analysis of vibration-caused damage. Determination of these parameters by strictly analytical techniques is questionable due to the irregularity of the building and due to the complex interaction between native construction materials. However, a cursory attempt was made during the study to define the probable sources of some of the ground motions which may induce potentially harmful vibrations into the structure. Finally, some recommendations are made to minimize future cracking due to vibration.