Seismic evaluation of isolation performance on single layer cylindrical reticulated shells supported along four sides

This study investigated the dynamic characteristics and seismic isolation performance of a single-layer cylindrical grid shell structure with lower support structures and different seismic isolation schemes, which encompass the installation of layered rubber bearings and new three-dimensional isolation bearings. Seven reducedscale models of the structure were tested on a shaking table, with acceleration, strain, and displacement sensors positioned in typical locations. The results showed that the seismic response of the upper cylindrical grid shell structure was amplified by the lower support structure, which indicates that separate seismic designs for both the upper structure and lower support structure are unsafe. The use of layered rubber bearings at the foundation effectively reduced horizontal seismic response but amplified vertical seismic response. To address this issue, the new three-dimensional isolation bearing was proposed, which showed better overall seismic isolation performance compared to the rubber bearings. Additionally, a new seismic isolation scheme was proposed, using a combination of three-dimensional isolation bearings at both the foundation and column tops. This scheme showed superior seismic isolation efficiency compared to other schemes and can reduce the volume and installation difficulty of the three-dimensional isolation bearing. Considering the functional requirements, cost, and technical difficulty is crucial when selecting suitable seismic isolation measures since different schemes have their advantages and disadvantages and perform differently under various seismic conditions.