Energy dissipation mechanisms in three‐dimensional rocking motion of cylindrical structures

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition that the rocking motion of structures, especially cylindrical ones, should be evaluated with three-dimensional (3D) models. However, dissipation mechanisms in 3D models are complex and have yet to well established. This paper presents an analytical study on inherent mechanism based rolling friction model external energy dissipators (EDs) for structures. Through variational formulation, nonlinear equations derived considering Bouc–Wen model. Compared existing literature, noticeable advantage it can capture behavior during free vibration under various initial conditions. Additionally, is more versatile since contact coefficient adjustable. On other hand, EDs further enhance Roles structures against earthquakes assessed using series near-fault pulse-like ground motions. Results indicate mechanism, is, model, cannot avoid overturning motions, leading unstable because uplifted cylinder will continuously absorb from earthquake excitations, while amount dissipated by small. Comparatively, adding effective mitigating seismic responses thereby avoiding overturning.