What are the methods of retrofitting beam to column joint against seismic loads?5 answersVarious methods have been proposed for retrofitting beam-to-column joints against seismic loads. One approach involves using viscoelastic materials and steel plates to improve the seismic performance of damaged reinforced concrete joints. Another method suggests employing shape memory alloys for active confinement to enhance joint strength and ductility. Additionally, retrofitting with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) using an externally bonding technique has shown significant improvements in joint behavior, strength, and energy dissipation capacities. Basalt Fiber Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) grids combined with a cementitious matrix have been utilized to enhance joint performance and durability. Lastly, retrofitting deficient exterior beam-column joints with steel plates and angles in various configurations has proven effective in preventing brittle joint shear failure and increasing joint strength, ductility, and stiffness.
How cfrp retrofitting behaves for lateral loading?4 answersCFRP retrofitting for lateral loading has been found to be effective in enhancing the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) columns. The use of CFRP wraps on RC columns has shown to increase lateral strength, energy dissipation, and ductility. The confinement of RC columns with CFRP composites has been shown to prevent brittle failure mechanisms and improve the mechanical properties of concrete, resulting in increased ductility. The application of CFRP jackets on shear-damaged RC columns has been found to significantly enhance the lateral strength, displacement ductility, and energy dissipation of the retrofitted columns. Additionally, the use of CFRP sheets and strips, bonded or unbonded to masonry walls, has been effective in strengthening masonry infill walls and improving their resistance to lateral loads. Overall, CFRP retrofitting has demonstrated its ability to improve the seismic performance of RC columns and masonry infill walls under lateral loading conditions.
What retrofitting technologies are there currently for improving wind turbines?4 answersRetrofitting technologies for improving wind turbines include upgrading rotor blades to increase power capture efficiency and enhance structural performance. LiDAR-assisted retrofit control solutions can be implemented without modifying the existing feedback controller, achieving thrust-related load reductions. Another method involves rotating at least a portion of the wind turbine tower to reduce stress during operation. Enhancing the low voltage ride through capability of wind turbines can be achieved through techniques such as braking chopper, energy storage, and STATCOM. Additionally, retrofitting wind turbine foundations can be done by arranging an elongated channel around the existing pile and driving a second pile into the ground.
What methodologies have been used to building retrofitting using reinforcement learning?5 answersReinforcement learning (RL) has been used as a methodology for building retrofitting in several studies. One study focused on a seismic retrofitting method using a seismic reinforcement structure. Another study introduced a retrofitting and reinforcement project for a historic hotel building, where the method involved increasing a new concrete frame structure in the original structure interior. Additionally, RL was applied in a fault-tolerant control strategy for quadcopter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), specifically for handling actuator and sensor faults/attacks. RL techniques have also been explored for controlling occupant comfort in indoor built environments, with a focus on thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and lighting objectives. Lastly, RL has been considered as a method for modeling and adjusting occupant behavior in building control, with potential applications in reducing global energy consumption.
How is simulation used for retrofit buildings?5 answersSimulation is used for retrofit buildings to calculate, visualize, and analyze building parameters for retrofit scenarios. It allows for the evaluation of operating costs, capital costs, and payback periods of different retrofit options. Simulation models are also used to assess the performance of retrofit solutions in terms of energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, simulation tools can help in the technical planning of energy refurbishment kits by providing quantitative information on energy performance and comfort. These tools allow for scenario testing and consideration of interactions among different building energy systems, such as heating and domestic hot water systems. Simulation models can also be calibrated to accurately predict the energy performance of retrofitted buildings, aiding in the design of retrofit interventions. Overall, simulation plays a crucial role in guiding engineers and technical professionals in the retrofitting process by providing valuable information for decision-making and optimization.
Why retrofitting for energy efficiency?2 answersRetrofitting for energy efficiency is important for several reasons. Firstly, retrofitting can help reduce the energy footprint of existing buildings and provide long-term savings for households. Secondly, retrofitting is a more attractive alternative to complete demolition and reconstruction in terms of economic, social, and environmental impact. Thirdly, retrofitting can improve the predictability of post-retrofit scenarios by using data on building usage to estimate the impact of energy-efficient solutions on future energy consumption. Additionally, retrofitting can enhance cooling efficiency in data centers, resulting in significant power consumption reduction. Lastly, the involvement of occupants in the retrofitting process is crucial for achieving energy efficiency goals, and factors such as occupants' behaviors, preferences, and socio-economic factors can influence the energy performance of buildings.