Abstract
This paper develops new techniques for integrating a number of different structural laboratories together through the Internet in order to jointly conduct a single structural experiment. A computer‐networking platform, called Platform for Networked Structural Experiments (PNSE), was developed to achieve this goal. PNSE runs directly on top of the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). It is a multi‐client system consisting of a number of client programs, which include one command
generation program and a number of facility control programs, connected to a server program via TCP point‐to‐point connections across the Internet. An associated application protocol, called Networked Structural Experiment Protocol (NSEP), was developed to work with the PNSE. In addition to communication rules, the NSEP defines general experimental information, significant laboratory events, commands and signals, as well as obligated behaviours of all PNSE programs. Both domestic and transnational pseudo‐dynamic (PSD) tests were performed to verify the validity and efficiency of the PNSE. Test results showed that on the PNSE: signals were correctly transmitted; significant laboratory events were promptly reflected; and data transmission was remarkably efficient, with the round‐trip time (RTT) between Taiwan and the United States less than 0.1701 s. The characteristic of environment independency was also demonstrated through the successful collaboration of different facility control programs running on different operating systems. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.