Simulation for a Low-Rise Masonry House Using Seismic Isolator with and Without S-shaped Steel Dampers

In the recent years, due to the limitations of common isolation systems, there are new hybrid base isolation systems proposed, for instance, the hybrid device consisting of an unbonded seismic isolator and shape memory alloy, hybrid fraction yielding elastomeric bearing, and rubber bearing with slit damper devices. In this paper, to increase the dissipative energy capacity of isolation devices and decrease the superstructure displacement, the novel hybrid seismic system including seismic isolator connected with S-shaped steel dampers (SSSDs) is investigated, and a simplified model of that system is proposed. The numerical model of a low-rise masonry house with the simplified model of a novel hybrid system is established in ABAQUS. The simulations and the comparisons of a low-rise masonry house with and without a novel hybrid system are investigated under the earthquake action based on finite element method. The novel hybrid seismic system applied in a low-rise masonry house has more effective protection by adding SSSDs. It can be adopted as a reference to strengthen the mechanical capacity of seismic isolation system and supply the practical application in the field of civil engineering.