Response simulation of hybrid base isolation systems under earthquake excitation

• New model for 1D non-linear dynamic analysis of hybrid base isolation systems.
• Compact analytical solution for the proposed model.
• Parameter identification from free vibration tests using evolutionary strategies.
• Simulation of response under initial displacement, harmonic and earthquake excitation.

In the present work, we investigate the response of a hybrid base isolation system under earthquake excitation. The physical parameters of the hybrid base isolation system are identified from dynamic tests performed during a parallel project involving two residential buildings in the town of Solarino, Sicily, using the well-established optimization procedure ‘covariance matrix adaptation-evolution strategy’ as dynamic identification algorithm in the time domain. The base isolation system consists of high damping rubber bearings and low friction sliding bearings. Two separate models are employed for the numerical simulation of the high damping rubber bearing component, namely a bilinear system and a trilinear system, both in parallel with a linear viscous damper. In addition, a linear Coulomb friction model is used to describe the behavior of the low friction sliding bearing system. Analytical solutions are provided, in compact form, for all possible phases of motion of the hybrid base isolation system under earthquake excitation. A series of numerical simulations are carried out to highlight the behavior of the considered hybrid base isolation system under different excitation and site conditions.