Uncertainty in Distinct Element Modeling of Freestanding Structures Considering Stiffness Parameters

Numerical studies on freestanding structures typically leverage the Distinct Element Method where the response is dictated by joints; however, the response carries significant uncertainty due to joint stiffness parameters. This study aims to quantify the influence of joint stiffness parameters on the global response of freestanding structures subjected to seismic excitation in a probabilistic formulation. By using a range of joint stiffness values with rectangular rigid blocks of different aspect ratios, the impact of joint stiffness parameters is evaluated against a large suite of historical ground motions. Results indicate that increasing contact stiffness results in increased stability against overturning.