Device for dynamic testing of human-structure interaction on surfaces with bidirectional movement

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for dynamic human-structure interaction testing, designed to reproduce in a controlled manner the behavior of structural surfaces subjected to pedestrian-induced loads, through bidirectional movements along the horizontal and vertical axes. The device comprises a horizontal movement application mechanism, a vertical movement application mechanism, a modified treadmill coupled to these mechanisms, a force and displacement measurement system including load cells and displacement sensors, and electronic processing means configured to receive the measurements, calculate structural responses, and actuate the movement mechanisms. The components are mounted on a metal support structure that ensures stability during the execution of the tests.The direct physical interaction between a pedestrian and the treadmill, combined with the applied bidirectional movement, allows for the evaluation of the dynamic behavior of flexible structures and the quantification of forces, displacements, and vibrational responses under reproducible conditions. The device is applicable in experimental testing and structural engineering studies.