Performance Analysis of base Isolated System Equipped with Shape Memory Alloy

Most energy dissipation system have some limitations and drawbacks such as difficulties related to ageing, durability, complexity of the installation, maintenance and placing permanent displacements after strong earthquakes. Characteristics such as large strain range without any residual deformation, high damping capacity, excellent re-centering, high resistance to fatigue and corrosion and durability have made shape memory alloy an effective damping device or part of base isolators. This paper investigates the seismic performance of an elastomeric bearing type base isolation system utilizing the shape memory alloys. To provide this investigation, a nonlinear structural model has been developed. The results of dynamic time history analyses reveal the significant characteristics of the proposed structural isolation system. This smart base isolation utilizes the different responses of shape memory alloys at several levels of strain to control the displacements of the rubber bearing and base shear at excitation level. Furthermore the proposed based isolation systems has enhanced performance in terms of response reduction and re-centering capacity.