| Abstract: | This paper presents an energy‐based theoretical model for a two degree‐of‐freedom mechanical system. After a general formulation in Appendix A, the model is specialized to study tuned mass dampers as a means to substantially increase modal damping in order to induce a consequential decrease of the seismic response of the structures thus provided. Although approximate since it neglects coupling due to damping, it is shown that the model yields a first‐order approximation to the exact frequencies, providing values of optimum damping that closely match exact results proposed by others. In view of this, it is proposed that the model be applied through an iterative numerical procedure that identifies the pertinent optimum parameters. It is also shown that for certain particular benchmark cases the model provides closed‐form equations for the parameters defining the dynamic states related to these special conditions. Despite its approximate nature the model presented in this paper is rational, and due to its explicit consideration of energy balance and overall simplicity, it provides a convenient platform for the study of tuned mass dampers, as well as for other methods of structural passive control. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
