ABSTRACT
This paper describes research into the effectiveness and feasibility of semi-active control systems for structural protection during severe earthquake loading. The research involves analytical studies of a four-storey one-fifth scale structure subjected to seismic excitation and controlled by semi-active resetable tendon elements. Computer simulations are carried out to determine the optimal placement of the semi-active tendons in the model structure. The effects on structural response induced by the addition of the resetable tendon elements are examined. A 77% reduction in the maximum relative displacement and a 74% reduction in the maximum inter-storey drift ratio are achieved. Important reductions in total base shear and maximum absolute acceleration are also observed. These results demonstrate the significant potential of semi-active resetable devices for the seismic protection of structures.
