Dynamic response and optimization of an inclined steel rock shed by the graded energy dissipating method

Blocking rockfalls directly by reinforced concrete (RC) flat sheds with thick sand cushions is an outdated method. Such conventional sheds typically accumulate rock heavily, and become progressively damaged and are difficult to repair, and are very costly. To address these problems, we propose a new structure called a Graded Dissipating Inclined Steel Rock (GDISR) shed that utilizes the graded energy dissipation method. Here, we study the dynamic response of the GDISR shed with model test and numerical simulation, and give its optimization design combining with a practical engineering case. Our results show that the optimized modular E-block and corrugated steel tube can deform to sufficiently absorb the energy of different impact intensities. This efficiently and economically provides GDISR sheds with two security lines. Compared with conventional RC sheds, GDISR sheds with optimal incline have a more efficient anti-impact function, are faster and easier to repair, and are much simpler and cheaper to build.