Comparative Studies of Semiactive Control Strategies for MR Dampers: Pure Simulation and Real-Time Hybrid Tests

This paper presents comparisons of the performances of three semiactive control algorithms for use with multiple magnetorheological (MR) dampers. The three controllers are (1) the clipped-optimal controller, (2) the decentralized output feedback polynomial controller, and (3) the simple passive controller. These controllers use different types of inputs to calculate control signals for the MR dampers, based on different control mechanisms. To investigate the advantages of each controller, a three-degree-of-freedom steel moment-resisting frame, designed using a performance-based design methodology, was developed. The performance was investigated by using four different earthquakes utilized during the design of the building frame. Comparisons of the controllers' performance were carried out in terms of reduction in the maximum interstory drifts, displacements, absolute accelerations, and control forces. Real-time hybrid tests were carried out to validate these comparisons. (C) 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.