Semi-active neurocontrol of a base-isolated benchmark structure

In this paper, a new semi-active control strategy for seismic response reduction using a neurocontroller and MR dampers is proposed. The proposed control system adopts a training algorithm based on a cost function and sensitivity evaluation algorithm to calculate the desired control force. A clipped algorithm is then employed to induce the MR damper to generate approximately the desired control force by selecting appropriate command voltage. The proposed semi-active neurocontroller was applied to a benchmark building installed with linear elastomeric isolation system. Comparing with passive and sample controller, numerical simulation results have shown that the proposed scheme can significantly reduce the floor acceleration, base shear and building corner drift with a slight increase of base displacement. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.