Nonlinear response of a multidirectional negative-stiffness isolation system via semirecursive multibody dynamic approach

Abstract

This paper investigates an innovative negative-stiffness device (NSD) that modifies the apparent stiffness of the supported structure for seismic isolation. The NSD comprises a lower base on the bottom and a cap on the top, together with a connecting rod, vertical movable wall, and compressed elastic spring, as well as circumferentially arranged, pretensioned external ropes, and inclined shape memory wires. This configuration can deliver negative stiffness and energy dissipation in any direction within the horizontal plane. A numerical model of the device is developed through a two-step semirecursive method to obtain the force–displacement characteristic relationship. Such a model is first validated through comparison with the results obtained via the commercial software ADAMS. Finally, a large parametric study is performed to assess the role and the influence of each design variable on the overall response of the proposed device. Useful guidelines are drawn from this analysis to guide the system design and optimization.