To enhance the capability of structures in seismic mitigation, in this study an advanced base isolation system called the direction optimized-friction pendulum system (DO-FPS) is proposed and investigated to address its mechanical behavior through finite element formulation and examine its efficiency in seismic mitigation by conducting a series of shaking table tests. Based on finite element formulation, it is revealed that the natural period, the capacity of the bearing displacement and damping effect for a Direction Optimized-Friction Pendulum System (DO-FPS) change continually during earthquakes. Therefore, DO-FPS can avoid possibility of resonance of enriched frequencies from ground motions and provide an effective capacity of bearing displacement and damping during the earthquakes. Simultaneously, results from the shaking table tests also illustrate that the DO-FPS isolator possesses an outstanding seismic mitigation capabilities.
Earthquake Engineering Base Isolation Passive Control Friction Pendulum System Base Isolator
C. S. Tsai Wen-Shin Chen T. C. Chiang Chen-Tsung Yang Yung-Chang Lin
Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung, Chinese Taiwan. Ph. D., Graduate Institute of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, Feng Chia University, Chinese Taiwan. Technical Manage, Earthquake Proof Systems, Taichung, Chinese Taiwan. Master, Department of Civil Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taichung, Chinese Taiwan Ph. D. Candidate, Graduate Institute of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, Feng Chia University, Taich