Optimal control of base-isolated systems with sliding TLCD under stochastic process

Abstract

In this study, an innovative hybrid passive vibration control strategy, combining a base-isolated (BI) structure with a novel sliding version of a Tuned Liquid Column Damper (STLCD) to enhance the dynamic performance of BI structures, is explored from both theoretical and experimental perspectives. In contrast to conventional fixed TLCDs, the proposed STLCD consists of a U-shaped tank partially filled with water, mounted on a roller support, and linked to the BI subsystem through a spring-dashpot system. This configuration results in a more versatile tuning procedure utilizing the spring for tuning and obtaining supplementary damping through the dashpot. The optimal design of the STLCD device is discussed assuming a Gaussian white noise process as base excitation and the credibility of the presented mathematical formulation is assessed through a shaking table testing campaign, carried out at the Laboratory of Experimental Dynamics at the University of Palermo (Italy). For the experimentation, a reduced-scale model of a BI structure with the integrated STLCD is constructed, and its effectiveness is experimentally evaluated. Finally, comparisons to traditional TLCDs and TMDs are presented, emphasizing control efficiency and the reduction of base displacement in the BI system.