Optimal Robust Design via SMA Dissipative Devices

A construction history that spans centuries often results in complex structural systems whose load-carrying behaviour cannot be easily assessed by visual inspections. Within this context monitoring systems can provide reliable information about the structural performance under serviceability conditions. In the present paper, output-only measurements are used for the dynamic system identification. A numerical model is developed and calibrated so that it matches the experimentally identified modal parameters. Finally, the collected data are used to assess and localize die deterioration state of the structure. The procedure is discussed, step by step, with reference to a specific case study, which concerns the medieval civic tower of Soncino, in Northern Italy.