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This study presents a computational method to estimate a global damage index of a RC construction. The method is based on the evaluation of local damage combined with an analysis of the probable collapse mechanism of the structure. A constitutive model for reinforced concrete, including global damage variables for concrete and steel elasto-plastic models, is integrated in a multilayered finite element code. The locations of pseudo plastic hinges in a structure are obtained in the areas of maximal damage through simulation by the FE method. The global index is derived from a specific formula taking into account the damage recorded in the critical zones of the structure (pseudo plastic hinges) and the damage computed in the less damaged areas. The proposed method is validated on a RC frame structure application. The diagram "global index vs. loading" shows a specific shape and gives interesting results for the discussion of the possibility of reparation.

To cite this version:Jean-François Dubé, Nicolas Angellier, Bernard Crosnier. Comparison between experimental tests and numerical simulations carried out on a tensegrity minigrid. Engineering Structures, Elsevier, 2008, 30, pp.1905-1912 -mail: dube@lmgc.univ-montp2.fr, angellier@lmgc.univ-montp2.fr, crosnier@lmgc.univ-montp2.fr AbstractTensegrity systems are structures in equilibrium under an initial self-stress state. This self-stress state is composed of elementary self-stress states, which constitute its basis.They have complex behaviour and the self-stress state can be modified by external loads. A continuous dialogue between numerical simulations and experimental tests made it possible to validate previous models. In this paper, we checked the validity of the indirect methods currently used to measure cable tension. We show that the connection between elements is embedding in spite of an apparent freedom movement of the structure. We show the necessity to use structural beam elements to correctly describe the bars behaviour in the structure.Static and vibratory measurements show the importance of the bending moment for the elements. We here improve the modelling of the behaviour of the Tensarch ® project tensegrity grid.