Fuzzy Methods for Modelling Earthquake Induced Sloshing in Rigid Reservoirs

Abstract

This paper is devoted to analysis of liquid vibrations in rigid containers at seismic loads. An effective numerical method is developed involving boundary elements and fuzzy logics. The novelty of the proposed method consists in using fuzzy concepts to analyzing uncertainties in earthquake parameters. First, deterministic methods are used for estimation of dynamic characteristics of structures with compartments partially filled with liquids. Sloshing problems are solved both in linear and nonlinear formulations. Then randomness of some earthquake parameters is adding to mathematical model. The fuzzy stochastic differential equations are received and solved numerically. Numerical results are obtained that demonstrate influence of uncertainties. These results provide a more adequate estimate of the free surface level during earthquakes and allow us to draw a conclusion about the possibility of hazardous contents spilling.