Application of Hybrid Sliding Isolation System to Buildings

Abstract

This paper introduces a new base isolation system—a friction‐controllable sliding system—for seismic response control of buildings. To overcome the limitations of conventional passive sliding isolation systems, a hybrid sliding system has been developed using friction‐controllable bearings. This innovative system uses a variable friction force produced by changing the pressure in its fluid chamber with computer control. In this study, the applicability of this system to buildings is examined through computer‐simulation analysis. A control algorithm is developed for this purpose, which considers various problems associated with the application of this system to buildings. It is shown that this hybrid system is more effective for earthquakes with a broad range of intensity, compared to its conventional passive counterparts. The proposed hybrid system is in the process of being installed in a four‐story office building in Tokyo to replace the existing passive isolation system.