Parameter optimization of damper-friction isolation systems using concave friction distribution

Abstract

The random friction distribution is an objective phenomenon and always leads to great uncertainty in seismic responses of damper-friction isolation systems. As to optimize the seismic performance, this paper artificially made the friction distribution on a contact surface to be concave. When the damper-friction isolation system was subjected to different ground motions, more regular responses, due to the concave friction distribution, were obtained comparing with the responses of the random friction distribution. The concave friction distribution is always conducive to reducing the structural relative displacement and insignificantly increasing the structural acceleration. An optimization design example of an isolation building was carried out. And the results showed that as for a structure only being sensitive to acceleration or force, significant concave friction distribution and little damping constant would be the best design combination. It resulted in a much less acceleration and an acceptable relative displacement on the structure.