Seismic response control in base isolated systems using tuned mass dampers

A new structural system, conceived to reduce seismic effects in Base Isolated Systems, is presented, in this paper. The new system combines the Tuned Mass Damping Strategy with the Isolation concept in order to obtain a new mixed system which principally attenuates the effects of the seismic excitation components with frequencies close to the fundamental natural vibration one. The objectives of combining both strategies into a unique system is then discussed. Linear models of the new system are then analyzed in order to evaluate the optimum parameters of the absorbers attached to Base Isolated Structures. The performance of the new system has been tested under some seismic excitations showing its effectiveness in controlling the seismic response of Base Isolated Structures.