Seismic response control using smart dampers

Abstract

Presents the results of a numerical study conducted to demonstrate the capabilities of multiple magnetorheological (MR) devices for seismic control of civil engineering structures when used in conjunction with a clipped optimal control algorithm. The study employs an identified model of the integrated structural system that is shown to accurately predict the responses of the experimental setup in the Washington University Structural Control and Earthquake Engineering Lab. Four parallel-plate, shear-mode MR dampers are used to control a six-story structure. The control devices are arbitrarily located in the structure. Through simulation, the performance of the controlled system is examined. The results indicate that high performance levels can be achieved, and the responses of the semi-active system are significantly smaller than that of comparable passive systems.