Variations within simple models for structure-soil interaction

The dynamic response of blocks sitting on a half-space is considered. Buildings and other structures placed on or within the ground influence the transmission of seismic waves. Hence, the presence of a building will have an impact on the dynamic response of neighbouring buildings. Furthermore, obstacles such as concrete blocks lead to wave scattering that may be beneficial or unfavourable for the response of a building close to, for example, a railway. To account for this dynamic cross coupling via the soil, a model must be accurate enough to provide the correct overall behaviour of the scattered wave field. However, simplicity is also important when a model should be used for design purposes, especially in the early stages of design and feasibility studies. The paper addresses two models in 2D and 3D based on different methodologies. Results are discussed regarding their capability to quantify vibration reduction when a periodic combination of masses are added on the ground to mitigate waves.