Earthquake Simulation and Data Processing

Introduction
Testing applications can involve shaking a structure to simulate an earthquake. To shake the structure, the RMC needs a position curve to follow.

Data Sources and Conversion
Position curves can be generated from acceleration data. Raw data and processed data from earthquakes is available from sources such as:

  1. Center for Engineering Strong Motion Data
  2. USGS National Strong Motion Project
  3. PEER Ground Motion Database

These sources have resources to help with converting the acceleration data to usable position data. This often requires some advanced processing algorithms. USGS has a page on Data Processing that does a good job of explaining how acceleration data can best be converted into displacement data. Additionally, software such as SeismoSignal can be utilized to help with the conversion process.

Once displacement data is available, the next step is to download the position curve to the RMC. This can be done using RMCTools, by pasting the curve from excel into the Curve Tool. Alternatively, code can be written to programmatically dump the curve into the RMC.

Summary
Publicly available resources provide guidance on converting acceleration data to displacement data. With the displacement data, a person can easily program an RMC to follow the displacment curve and simulate the earthquake.