Shake table test of single-degree-of-freedom structure equipped with variable inertia rotational mechanism

This project explores the nonlinear behavior of a variable inertia rotational mechanism (VIRM), a passive control device that produces variable inertia during the response of a structure. The VIRM is installed in a small-scale single-degree-of-freedom system that is excited with different forward sine sweep excitation amplitudes using a shake table. The experimental data obtained from the system are used to investigate the effect of the VIRM on the dynamics and performance of the structure and to compare its performance with other passive control mechanisms. This research represents a novel experimental investigation of the VIRM mechanism in a physically realizable building setup, which has not been extensively studied in the literature. The results of this study have potential applications in the design of safer and more cost-effective buildings. The target audience for this research includes researchers in the field of structural protection who seek to explore the potential of VIRM-based designs. The findings from this project were presented at the International Modal Analysis Conference (IMAC) on February 15, 2023.