Structural Performance Assessment of Sliding-Type Evacuation Ladders Under Realistic Fire Evacuation Loading Conditions

초록

This study evaluates the structural performance of sliding-type evacuation ladders under realistic fire evacuation loading conditions using parametric numerical analysis. A series of finite element models was developed based on the original ladder design, and key parameters-including member thickness (1-4 mm), overlap length between modular units (40-70 mm), loading configurations, and boundary conditions at the ladder base-were systematically varied. A total of 288 numerical cases were analyzed to investigate their influence on global displacement behavior. The results indicate that a minimum member thickness of 2 mm is required to satisfy displacement-based serviceability criteria; however, this threshold may be insufficient when connection flexibility is considered. The overlap length has a more pronounced effect on structural performance for thinner members, while the loading height has a significant effect on the displacement response. In addition, the boundary condition at the ladder base plays a critical role, with vertical support conditions substantially reducing overall displacement. These findings highlight the importance of system-level structural evaluation beyond component-based testing. They also provide practical insights for improving the design criteria and installation conditions of evacuation ladders in high-rise residential buildings during fire emergencies.

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