Multi-Stage Performance of Seismically Isolated Bridge Using Triple Pendulum Bearings

Triple pendulum isolator (TPI) represent a new generation of adaptive friction isolation system to control super-structure demand in different hazard levels. This isolator incorporates four concave surfaces and three independent pendulum mechanisms. Pendulum stages can be set to address specific response criteria for moderate, severe and very severe events. Herein after mathematical formulation of typical elevated highway bridge using TPI, series of nonlinear dynamic analysis were performed with different friction coefficients, pendulum radius and slider displacement capacities. Effects of variation of these parameters were investigated on key bridge demand parameters under multi hazard level excitations by using probabilistic description.