Frequency domain-based analytical framework for seismic performance of viscously damped outrigger systems based on continuous Timoshenko beam theory

This paper proposes a frequency domain-based analytical framework for seismic performance of viscously damped outrigger systems. Based on a core–outrigger–damper–column simplified model, the global dynamic stiffness matrix is assembled from the core modeled as a Timoshenko beam, damped outriggers as complex rotational stiffness comprising outriggers, dampers, and perimeter columns, and inherent damping using Leung’s theory and modal damping construction. A general numerical method combining Wittrick-Williams algorithm and Newtonian iteration is developed to study the dynamic characteristic of such systems with multiple damped outriggers. The fast Fourier transformation (FFT) and the inverse Fourier transformation (IFFT) are then integrated with the principle of potential energy to obtain the equivalent nodal force and thus the time history response by transformations between time and frequency domains. Finally, the stochastic analysis is conducted via the transfer function resulting from the global stiffness matrix with the stochastic seismic excitation following Kanai-Tajimi spectrum. The proposed approach is verified by comparison with the finite element method through a case study of a tall building implemented with viscously damped outriggers. This study shows that the proposed analytical framework could serve as a powerful tool for evaluating the performance of viscously damped outrigger systems.