Title: Experimental Tests and Applications of a New Biaxial Elasto-plastic Device for the Passive Control of Structures

Author(s): Mauro Dolce, Biagio Filardi, Robert Marnetto and Domenico Nigro

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 164

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 651-674

Keywords: Bridges (structures); ductility; earthquake-resistant structures; energy; tests.

DOI: 10.14359/14321

Date: 11/1/1996

Abstract:
A new biaxial elasto-plastic device is described. The device is made up of bended U-shaped steel elements arranged in a radial pattern. Each element can deform along any direction. The radial arrangement allows for a full exploitation of the energy dissipating capability of each element as well as for the possibility of calibrating the resisting forces in the horizontal directions. The experimental and the numerical results show a good non linear behavior of the U-elements as well as of the complete device, with high energy dissipation capacity and allowance for large displacements. Some applications on bridges are described in order to show the potential uses of this device.