Resetting Semi-Passive Stiffness Damper
Overview
One way to reduce the devastating fatalities and economic losses of earthquakes is to minimize the vulnerability of civil infrastructure. This can be achieved through infrastructure strengthening and/or implementation of structural control. Structural control can be broadly characterized into three categories: active, passive, and semi-active. Of the three, semi-active control has recently received increased attention due to its adaptability, minimal power requirement, and inherent stability. The Resetting Semi-Active Stiffness Damper (RSASD) has proven effective in reducing the response of structures in the presence of near-field ground motions. The device, however, could be much simpler and produce similar results as demonstrated by the RSPSD.
The RSPSD utilizes a primarily mechanical system that achieves resetting without the need for a complex feedback control system. The mechanical system replaces the encoder and micro-controller components of the RSASD, thereby enhancing the reliability of the damper during a seismic event.
OU Ref: 12015 View [PDF]
Issued Patents:
Inventor
Ken Walsh, Ph.D. Professor of Civil Engineering