Proposal of a tuned mass damper with friction damping to control excessive floor vibrations

A numerical and experimental study is carried out for a tuned mass damper (TMD) to control excessive floor vibrations. To verify the performance of this control device, free and forced vibration experiments were performed on the platform for dynamic tests located at the University of Brasilia Structure Laboratory. The platform and the TMD were previously modeled via the finite element method using ANSYS software for harmonic and transient analysis, varying damper parameters to find design values for TMD mass, damping and stiffness. The control device was constructed so that it could be installed above the platform. Experimental tests were performed on the platform by people doing rhythmic activities of continuous jumping, walking randomly and synchronized movements with semi bended knees. The results of the tests verified the reduction of the response acceleration of the structure with TMD installation. This control system is of simple construction and maintenance, and has a low manufacturing cost.