Crowd coordination in jumping tests on a model grandstand

Anthony Comer, Anthony Blakeborough, Martin S. Williams

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

It is now widely accepted that concerted human activity such as bobbing and jumping can excite cantilever grandstands which are inherently flexible structures. This fact necessitates the ongoing revision of UK codes and guidelines concerning the design and assessment of modern grandstands. A realistic and accurate crowd load model will be an essential tool in the accurate prediction of the response of such grandstands. To this end, a series of jumping and bobbing tests have been performed on a unique grandstand test rig developed at Oxford University. Group tests have been performed under a variety of conditions in order to assess the levels of crowd coordination and consequently crowd loading achievable. These results will aid the development and calibration of a crowd load model. To date, all tests have been performed on a rigid structure. However, this paper focuses on the influence of structural motion on group coordination levels. In addition, other coordinating factors such as physical contact between individuals by means of arm linking are addressed. Early findings suggest structural motion does not adversely affect crowd coordination levels relative to coordination levels achievable when a group is active on a rigid structure. This observation has significant implications for modern cantilever grandstands. In addition, physical contact such as arm linking between individuals can increase crowd coordination levels.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication7th European Conference on Structural Dynamics, EURODYN 2008
PublisherUniversity of Southampton, Institute of Sound Vibration and Research
ISBN (Electronic)9780854328826
Publication statusPublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes
Event7th European Conference on Structural Dynamics, EURODYN 2008 - Southampton, United Kingdom
Duration: 7 Jul 20089 Jul 2008

Publication series

Name7th European Conference on Structural Dynamics, EURODYN 2008

Conference

Conference7th European Conference on Structural Dynamics, EURODYN 2008
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CitySouthampton
Period7/07/089/07/08

Keywords

  • Cantilever grandstands
  • Dynamic load factors
  • Human-structure interaction

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