Design of multiple tuned mass dampers by using a numerical optimizer

A new method to design multiple tuned mass dampers (multiple TMDs) for minimizing excessive vibration of structures has been developed using a numerical optimizer. It is a very powerful method by which a large number of design variables can be effectively handled without imposing any restriction before the analysis. Its framework is highly flexible and can be easily extended to general structured with different combinations of loading conditions and target controlled quantities. The method has been used to design multiple TMDs for SDOF structures subjected to wide-band excitation. Some novel results have been obtained. To reduce displacement response of the structure. the optimally designed multiple TMDs have distributed natural frequencies and distinct damping ratios at low damping level. The obtained optimal configuration of TMDs was different from the earlier analytical solutions and was proved to be the most effective. A robustness design of multiple TMDs has also been presented. Robustness is defined as the ability of TMDs to function properly despite the presence of uncertainties in the parameters of the system. Numerical examples of minimizing acceleration structural response have been given where the system parameters are uncertain and are modeled as independent normal variates. It was found that, in case of uncertainties in the structural properties. increasing the TMD damping ratios along with expanding the TMD frequency range make the system more robust. Meanwhile, if TMD parameters themselves are uncertain, it is necessary to design TMDs for higher damping ratios and a narrower frequency range. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.