Parametric Analysis of the Dynamic Response of Multi-Drum Columns.

This paper investigates the dynamic response of multi-drum columns using the finite element method. Properly derived 3-D models based on a scaled replica of an ancient marble column are used in the simulations. The model properties are carefully selected to reduce analysis time without sacrificing the accuracy of the results. The dynamic behavior of the system under random and earthquake excitations is examined. A parametric analysis for crucial modeling quantities is performed, comparing numerical results with experimental measurements. A reasonable prediction of the response of multi-drum columns can be obtained for a carefully selected, suitable choice of the model parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]