Abstract

The implementation of variable friction dampers (VFD) for vibration mitigation of seismic structures generally requires an efficient semi-active control method. In this paper, a semi-active model control method is proposed to determine the controllable clamping force of a variable friction damper. A comparative study was performed on a multiple DOF structure controlled by passive friction dampers, variable friction dampers in subsection numerical examples. Finally, this paper also provides preliminary conclusions of the advantages and disadvantages for friction dissipators.