SEISMIC REINFORCEMENT EFFECT OF LADDERY BEAM INSTALLED WITH VISCOELASTIC DAMPERS

Abstract

In this paper, a laddery beam with high damping viscoelastic dampers is proposed to enhance seismic capacity of traditional timber structures. To make clear the effect of the reinforcement member, shaking table tests were conducted in the Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University. As a result, a laddery beam with high damping viscoelastic dampers increased damping ratio and reduced response, compared with those without dampers. The laddery beam with viscoelastic dampers tested was proven to have effectiveness in enhancing seismic performance of traditional wooden frames during earthquakes.