Design of multiple viscoelastic tuned mass dampers for floor vibration applications

Abstract

Floor vibration due to human activities is becoming a significant concern to designers and developers of long span lightweight floor systems. Modern office floors have been constructed with longer spans and smaller structural members. Actual office dead loads and floor damping are significantly lower than what they were in the past, increasing the potential for annoying floor vibration. Traditional techniques to reduce vibrations through structural modifications have some serious shortcomings, especially with existing structures. This paper discusses the effectiveness of an innovative configuration for a tuned mass damper (TMD) using viscoelastic material in rectifying problematic floors. In particular, the paper develops general analytical formulae to predict the response of a floor fitted with multiple identical TMDs. New optimum parameters for the TMD have been recommended based on numerical simulation studies. The design of a multiple viscoelastic damper system for an existing office floor is also presented.