The objective of this investigation is to improve the fundamental understanding of how and why nonlinear fluid viscous dampers (FVDs) and nonlinear viscoelastic (VE) dampers are effective in reducing structural response and to develop simplified analysis and design procedures for practical applications of these dampers. An innovative technique is developed for single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems, which is then extended to asymmetric one-story, 2-degree-of-freedom systems. directly from the earthquake design spectrum for an asymmetric one-story system with nonlinear VE dampers.

Rapid advances have been made during the past few decades in earthquake response modification technologies for structures, most notably in base isolation and energy dissipation systems. Many practical applications of various dampers can be found worldwide and, in the United States, damper design has been included in building codes. The current desi

Problems in nonlinear structural dynamics and critical excitation with elastic-plastic structures are typically addressed using time-history response analysis, which requires multiple repetitions and advanced computing. This alternative approach transforms ground motion into impulses and takes an energy balance approach. This book is accessible to undergraduates, being based on the energy balance law and the concepts of kinetic and strain energies, and it can be used by practitioners for building and structural design. This presentation starts with simple models that explain the essential features and extends in a step-by-step manner to more complicated models and phenomena.