Semianalytical method for parametric study of tuned mass dampers

Based on wind-tunnel measurements of wind-induced response of tall buildings, a semianalytical method of performing parametric study of tuned mass dampers for tall buildings is proposed. This method was verified through a series of aeroelastic model tests of buildings with and without mass dampers, and a close agreement between semianalytical and experimental results was found. The method can be used to provide an accurate estimate of motion reduction of a building without having to conduct aeroelastic model tests of mass damper-building systems. Both the analytical and experimental results show that the effectiveness of tuned mass dampers depends to some extent on the type of wind excitation. The conventional parametric study method, which is based on a white-noise excitation model, usually overestimates the performance of tuned mass dampers. The practical application of the proposed method and the selection of the optimal mass damper parameters are demonstrated. The limitation of the present study and the required further research are pointed out..