Dynamic response of infilled frames incorporating a sliding base device

Abstract

In this paper, emphasis is placed on the improved dynamic behavior of the infilled frame that results when the frame is mounted on a sliding base. Because the inelastic stiffness of the sliding base during the shaking process is difficult to determine analytically, it is determined instead by experiment, on the basis of which an equivalent non-linear foundation model is established. The infilled frame and the equivalent non-linear foundation are then assembled and analyzed by the ADINA program. Experimental and analytical results show that the combined system retains high structural stiffness under normal loading conditions while sustaining a greatly reduced response to base excitation. It is therefore concluded that the adoption of such a system can increase the ability of a building to resist both wind and earthquake loads.