Simulating Seismic Response Behavior of Telecommunications Equipment

Over the past four years, Lucent Technologies (formerly AT&T Bell Laboratories) has funded a research project that is aimed at determining the feasibility of using a computer to simulate the dynamic response of its digital access and cross-connect systems when subjected to design earthquake loadings. In this work, coarse finite element models are demonstrated to be accurate in calculating the resonant frequencies and corresponding modes of vibration for these structural systems. Through further comparisons with actual shake table tests performed at Wyle Laboratories in Huntsville, Ala., this technology is also proven adequate in calculating earthquake response behavior. It is expected that the research summarized in this paper will provide structural and mechanical engineers in the telecommunications field a basis for applying computer simulation as an earthquake design tool.