Sensitivity analysis and multi-objective optimization of a vibration control system implemented in the base of multi-story structures

This study presents a systematic multi-objective design optimization procedure of a vibration control system (VCS) implemented in the base of multi-story structures for seismic protection. A multi-method sensitivity analysis is employed to identify the influence of each VCS component on the controlled structure’s seismic response and guide the optimization process. Subsequently, the Pareto fronts of the complete linear and nonlinear VCS are identified via the optimal trade-off between the base displacement demand and superstructure dynamic responses. Furthermore, several simplified VCS designs are explored, where parameters with negligible impact on the system performance are removed from the VCS configuration, yielding efficient resource allocation. It is concluded that the VCS is robust even without some of its components, showing minimal efficiency loss. Finally, the performance of the VCS is assessed with actual earthquake records and is compared to conventionally base-isolated structures, revealing alternative seismic protection approaches.