Impedance Modeling for Prediction of Train Induced Floor Vibrations

Laboratory and manufacturing facilities are frequently located in areas that experience high-frequency (greater than 30 Hz) environmental vibration. Such vibrations are a concern for the proper functioning of sensitive laboratory devices, precision manufacturing equipment as well as human comfort. A simple method to accurately predict the magnitude of high-frequency floor vibrations would allow detailed vibration assessment during the conceptual design phase, and provide physical insight useful for developing vibration mitigation approaches. This paper discusses a methodology for prediction of train-induced floor vibrations in buildings using a wave propagation technique. The data obtained from an experiment carried out at Tufts University on a scale model laboratory building have been used to validate the predictions. The proposed wave propagation method successfully predicted the measured velocities and impedances of the scale model building.