Integrated Damping Systems for Tall Buildings: Vertically Distributed TMDs

Tuned mass dampers (TMDs), which reduce wind-induced dynamic motions of tall buildings, are usually located near the top of the building for their effective performance. As a result, very valuable occupiable space near the top of tall buildings is sacrificed to contain TMDs. This paper investigates the potential of vertically distributed multiple small TMDs over the building height. This strategy resolves some of the challenging aspects of conventional TMD designs. First, valuable space near the top can be saved for more desirable functions which can maximize the advantage of great views. Second, by distributing multiple small TMDs, greater reliability can be obtained in case some of them do not function properly or have some tuning errors. Third, not only the first mode but also higher mode responses can be effectively controlled if necessary. Fourth, TMDs can be more easily installed by making them very small. This paper presents the structural performance and preliminary design of vertically distributed multiple TMDs. The study results suggest that TMDs can be distributed vertically along the building height without substantial loss of their effectiveness.