Multiple Tuned Mass Dampers and Double Tuned Mass Dampers for Soft Story Structures: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Recent seismic events have highlighted the vulnerability of reinforced concrete buildings, especially soft-story structures, to damage and collapse during strong earthquakes due to the ground's vibrational response. This study aims to mitigate these adverse vibrations using passive control mechanisms, particularly tuned mass dampers (TMDs). Conventional TMDs require a substantial mass to effectively influence the structure's lateral reactions. The research explores the use of multi-tuned mass dampers (MTMDs) and double-tuned mass dampers (DTMDs) in a soft-story building. The study uses MATLAB to estimate TMD parameters and subject the models to seismic loading. The comparative assessment of these models reveals the potential benefits of using MTMD and DTMD systems to enhance the seismic resilience of soft-story structures.