The application of Karhunen-Loeve, or principal component analysis method,to study the non-linear seismic response of structures

The Karhunen-Loeve (K-L) method is used to interpret dynamic response data obtained from shaking table and pseudodynamic tests conducted on civil engi neering structures subjected to earthquake loading. It is shown how the K-L method can be used to monitor on-line, or a posteriori, the structural res ponse of non-linear dynamical systems. Results from these analyses make it possible to quantitatively verify the number and participation factors of n on-linear modes and how they correspond to physical behaviour of the struct ure. Comments are made regarding the use of this technique in various field s including numerical calculations, experiments and control. Copyright (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.