Accuracy of analytical models to predict primary and secondary system response in seismically isolated buildings

Seismic isolation is generally considered an effective earthquake protection strategy. As application of seismic increases, decisions on the use one particular isolator versus another increasingly depend computed responses with complex analytical models. Accordingly, validation models to predict primary (structural) and secondary system (non-structural component) response in seismically isolated buildings becomes very important. This paper presents comparisons experimental results a building model order provide information accuracy predicted response. The tested was configured as 6-story at quarter length scale moment-frame configuration, following systems: a) Low damping elastomeric bearings without linear or nonlinear viscous dampers, b) Single Friction Pendulum (FP) c) Lead-rubber bearings. Response quantities compared include story drifts shear forces displacements for system, peak floor total velocities spectra that relate samples out 288 presented MCEER report. It shown sufficient by but some may be underestimated overestimated significant amounts.