Development and validation of a three dimensional finite element structure-tuned liquid damper model system

The resonant vibration motion of tall buildings due to dynamic loading, such as wind and earthquake, can be reduced by adding passive dynamic vibration absorbers (DVAs). The inertia forces, which develop from the DVA motion, modify the frequency response of the primary structure's mode to which the DVA is tuned. A single sway mode of vibration is usually considered, however, for certain structures multiple modes may need to be suppressed. In addition, the location of the TLD on the floor plate is important for certain modes, such as the torsional mode. In the proposed three dimensional finite element structure-tuned liquid damper model system (3D-Structure-TLD), the tanks can be placed at any location on the structure allowing the most effective positions in reducing the structure's dynamic response to be determined. This is particularly important for situations where limited space is available for the tanks to be placed. The finite element model can predict the response of a three dimensional structure (high-rise building, bridge, tower, etc.) fitted with multiple TLDs under a predetermined source of dynamic excitation (wind or earthquake) by considering the coupling of all modes. This type of 3D numerical analysis is highly recommended for torsionally sensitive structures (eccentric/irregular structures). The 3D-Structure-TLD model system is validated for the case of random excitation force using existing experimental test results. A nonlinear TLD model is employed to simulate the TLD. Results from the 3D-Structure-TLD model are found to be in excellent agreement with experimental values.