Comfort and safety in buildings under vibration effects: challenges and ways to overcome them

Purpose. To determine the influence of the structural solution on the dynamic parameters of buildings on vibration safety and the human body; to perform numerical modelling of the interaction of soil with the building foundation and to assess the influence of soil characteristics on the vibration behavior of structures, as well as to consider effective methods for reducing vibrations to ensure the stability and comfort of buildings. The methods. The interaction of a multi-storey building with a reinforced concrete frame with the surrounding soil massif was investigated using the methods of computer mechanics. A finite element model was created using the SCAD software package and the dynamic characteristics of buildings of different number of storeys and structural schemes were obtained. Findings. Based on the obtained results, it was found that changes in soil parameters significantly affect the frequencies of natural vibrations of buildings, which can cause additional mechanical stresses in building elements and discomfort to residents. Changes in the frequencies, eigenvalues and amplitudes of vibrations signal the presence of defects and damage to structures. The paper analyses the impact of vibrations on the human physiological state and identifies critical frequency ranges that can cause discomfort or changes in well-being. It is determined that the first mode of vibration is the most sensitive indicator of the building condition. The originality. The methodology for modeling the interaction of a multi-story frame building with a soil foundation has been further developed. The regularities of changes in the dynamic characteristics of the frame depending on the mechanical characteristics of the soil have been revealed. Practical implementation. The obtained results allow to improve the methods of assessment of vibration impact on buildings, which will contribute to the improvement of their safety and comfort. The proposed methods of vibration reduction can be used to minimize the negative impact on structures and human health in densely populated areas of cities.