Development of a Low-Cost Single-Axis Shake Table Based on Arduino

Abstract

Experimental setup for studying the behavior of structures are large and require high investment costs. However, comparing theoretical results to the dynamic behavior of structures using scaled structure models is a preferred research method in civil engineering. Therefore, a low-cost shake table named SARSAR with Arduino microcontroller boards has been developed for earthquake simulations. The horizontal components of the acceleration records obtained from past earthquakes are scaled and transferred to the shake table by developing software programs using an Arduino DUE board. For verification, the response of the table is measured by a data acquisition unit based on an Arduino MEGA board. The seismic ground motion along the horizontal axis is transferred to the shake table via a linear actuator system built with a ball screw assembly, linear bearings and a stepper motor.