Energy based design of rocking systems for seismic protection

Low-damage systems are crucial for building resilience by absorbing and dissipating seismic energy. Strategies like seismic isolation, energy dissipation devices, and rocking systems minimize damage, protect structural integrity, and reduce repair costs. Energy-Based Design (EBD) principles are integrated into this framework to improve seismic performance and safety. EBD provides a more accurate understanding of energy dissipation within structures, enabling more precise assessment and management of structural performance. This research proposes a general framework for implementing EBD in low-damage structures, especially rocking systems; based on Akiyama’s iterative approach, it allows to optimize the distribution of damage within the structure, ensuring that plastic deformations are evenly spread across critical structural elements. The methodology is versatile and adaptable to various construction materials, and its application has been demonstrated in different scenarios. In the first part of the research, the focus is on multi-storey steel frames. The study explores the optimization of the iterative process before selecting structural sections, leading to a more efficient distribution of damage and hysteretic energy. The second part of the research shifts to timber structures. Timber, known for its flexibility and sustainability, is examined for its potential in low-damage seismic design. The integration of rocking systems, dissipative braces, and post-tensioned tendons in timber frames is analyzed, with a particular focus on understanding how energy can be dissipated within the structure. By strategically confining damage to easily repairable areas, the study demonstrates how the energy-based approach can enhance both the resilience and sustainability of timber buildings. Overall, the findings highlight the adaptability and effectiveness of the energy-based design methodology across different materials, optimizing both seismic performance and resource efficiency. This research underscores the potential of advanced seismic strategies in creating resilient, sustainable buildings suited to a wide range of construction materials and structural systems.