Dynamic Response of Steel Moment-Frame Structures with Hybrid Passive Control Systems

The concept of the hybrid passive control system is studied analytically by investigating the seismic response of steel moment-frame structures. A hybrid passive system combines a rate-dependent damping device with a rate-independent energy dissipation device. The innovative configuration exploits individual element strengths and offsets their weaknesses through multi-phased behavior. A 9-story, 5-bay steel moment-frame was used for the analysis. Six different seismic resisting systems were analyzed and compared. The conventional systems included a plain special moment-resisting frame (SMRF) and a dual SMRF-buckling-restrained brace (BRB) system. The four hybrid configurations utilize a BRB and either a high-damping rubber damper or viscous fluid damper. The results demonstrate the capabilities of hybrid passive control systems to improve structural response compared to conventional lateral systems and to be effective in performance-based earthquake engineering. Each hybrid configuration improved some aspect of structural response with some providing benefits for multiple damage measures. The multi-phased nature of the device improves performance for small, moderate and severe seismic events.