Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The University of British Columbia's School of Engineering plans to acquire an advanced Data Acquisition System (DAS) to capture, measure, and analyze data from various sources during structural engineering testing. The DAS uses sensors to detect phenomena such as strains and deformations, converts them to digital data, and then processes, stores, and displays this information for analysis. A DAS is essential for efficient data management, safety, and quality control and provides critical feedback for control systems. Within the construction research context, a DAS is crucial to understanding material and structural performance, validating safety models, and ensuring the efficacy of innovative techniques. The proposed DAS will be instrumental in upcoming testing using the recently awarded Multi-axis Subassembly Testing (MAST) system, a unique structural testing machine to Western Canada. Combined with the new MAST, the DAS, will enable researchers in Western Canada to accelerate innovation in the construction sector by being able to test under more realistic multi-directional loading. The applicants have embarked on several critical research programs urgently requiring the DAS system. Some projects include, testing precast reinforced shear walls for use in high-rise buildings and locally sourced rammed earth structural walls for use in sustainable Indigenous housing. These flagship programs seek to develop techniques for sustainable and equitable housing solutions in BC and across Canada. Furthermore, the proposed DAS will be used to develop advanced structural analysis and simulation methods through full-scale testing. For example, the applicants are working on new models for steel-reinforced coupling beams, post-tensioned CLT walls, and post-tensioned rocking piers with energy dissipators. This will directly impact the use of such systems for higher-performance buildings/bridges in wind or seismic areas. Innovation in construction materials is also a key focus area, such as assessing the viability of using SMA rebar in precast concrete structures to enable infrastructure to recover quickly following a disaster. By bridging a critical gap in infrastructure, this DAS will empower researchers to advance their efforts and significantly contribute to the safety and sustainability of Canadian infrastructure. The proposed DAS is essential in advancing innovation within the construction sector, specifically concerning low carbon materials and resilient infrastructure, which is critical to addressing pressing societal needs related to sustainability and disaster resiliency. The researchers' collective expertise and experience will ensure that the proposed DAS will be highly utilized and contribute significantly to the safety and sustainability of infrastructure in Canada.