Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

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Ain Shams Engineering Journal

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Seismic response analysis of connected dual-tower isolated structure under

three-dimensional earthquakes
Fusong Peng a, Jialin Li a, Dewen Liu a, *, Zhiang Li a, Hang Shan a, Xiaoxuan luo a, Gengjie Liao a,
Min Lei b
a
College of Civil Engineering, Southwest Forestry University, Kunming 650000, China
b
College of Civil Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610000, China

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: The study primarily concentrates on investigating the high-rise connected dual-tower frame-shear wall structure,
Connected dual-tower structure aiming to enhance its vibration control and overall stability. Furthermore, it seeks to assess the effectiveness of
Inter-layer isolated the corridor system under rare earthquake conditions and analyze the flexibility of the composite isolation
Time history analysis
scheme. The specific research methodology involves proposing the installation of isolated layers on both sides of
Earthquake response
the corridor within the tower structure, utilizing composite three-dimensional isolation bearings in these layers.
Shock absorption performance
The corridor and tower are connected flexibly to create a structural control system that incorporates energy
dissipation through isolation techniques. Additionally, nonlinear dynamic time-history analyses are conducted
on three different structural configurations: the base-fixed dual-tower structure, the single-tower isolated
structure, and the dual-tower isolated structure. The primary focus is on discussing the advantages of the dual-
tower isolation system. The analysis indicates that both the conventional isolated scheme and the composite
isolated scheme exhibit effective control over inter-story displacement and internal forces in the dual-tower
structure. The composite isolated scheme demonstrates double-isolated effect of the seismic scheme when sub­
jected to vertical seismic actions. The implemented composite isolated bearings successfully manage the seismic
response of vertical displacement and vertical acceleration at the top floor of the tower, reducing the degree of
seismic impact by 49.6% and 42.5% respectively, compared to traditional horizontal seismic conditions. By
positioning the isolated layer lower, the impact of the corridor on the tower is reduced. The seismic gap between
the corridor and the dual-tower provides reference values for designing the dual-tower isolated control system.

1. Introduction research on the reliability and seismic behavior of this building type
under earthquake conditions. Liang-kun, L. et al.[1] investigated
High-rise interconnected building structures feature distinctive de­ optimal parameter characteristics and seismic reduction effects of con­
signs and optimal connectivity between each tower. They are broadly trol systems for three different types of conjoined structures. Peyman M.
utilized in various regions around the globe. The interconnecting Osgooei et al.[2]propose the Pivot-Elastic model for the load–displace­
structure amalgamates multiple or dissimilar buildings through corri­ ment relationship of FREIs load and displacement, using two techniques
dors, resulting in a diverse range of complex and intricate shapes. The for modeling isolated systems and considering three types of seismic
mechanical behavior of these structures under seismic activity is highly motions. This model simplifies the time history analysis of isolated
variable, making it a paramount concern for structural designers and structures. Darwin, D. et al.[3] briefly introduced a nonlinear constitu­
researchers. Consequently, architects and researchers have turned their tive model for plain concrete subjected to biaxial cyclic loading. Wu
focus toward the design challenges associated with this type of building. Qiao-yun, W. U. et al.[4] introduced a new hybrid passive control system
The seismic isolated scheme design and corridor connection features that combines segmented isolated and adjacent building connection
of dual-tower structures have a significant impact on the force mecha­ dampers for energy dissipation. They conducted dynamic analysis on the
nism, dynamic characteristics, and seismic performance of the entire segmented isolated system under earthquake excitations in vario us
structure. Both domestic and foreign scholars have conducted extensive frequency ranges, derived an optimal expression for the damper

* Corresponding author.
E-mail address: [email protected] (D. Liu).

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.asej.2023.102538
Received 7 August 2023; Received in revised form 9 October 2023; Accepted 19 October 2023
2090-4479/© 2023 THE AUTHORS. Published by Elsevier BV on behalf of Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University. This is an open access article under the CC
BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).
F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 1. Schematic diagram of isolated analysis model.

parameters, and determined the optimal number and location of during long-period seismic activities. They also analyzed the damage
dampers. D. De Domenico et al. [5]conducted a comprehensive study on evolution of the structure under varying types of earthquake motion, as
the hysteresis behavior exhibited by full-scale unbounded fiber- well as the input of energy into the structure during unique seismic
reinforced elastomeric isolators (UFREI) when subjected to triaxial events. Marco Furinghetti et al.[17] devised three independent isolated
loading. This investigation involved a combination of experimental and systems, delving into the intricate nonlinear hysteresis characteristics
numerical frameworks. They specifically explored the impact of lateral exhibited by high-damping rubber bearings, lead rubber bearings, and
coupling among the isolators on the performance of base-isolated sliding bearings within the broader structural system. Their study
structures under bidirectional seismic excitation conditions. According further scrutinized and assessed the efficacy of these isolated systems.
to research conducted by Li Chunfeng, Du Yongfeng, Villi. et al.[6], Zhou, Y., Chen, P. et al.[18] investigated the seismic performance of a
flexible energy dissipation and damping isolated connection is the rec­ large frame platform with a four-tower structure at the bottom of a
ommended method for connections. Meanwhile, Ehle, F., Stark, S. et al. subway station by conducting vibration table experiments and numeri­
[7] have proposed a novel approach to model lumped elements of cal simulations. Their findings indicated that the primary mode of
magnetic shape memory alloys, which resolves the typical problems structural damage was result from shear failure in the weak layer.
associated with hysteresis representation and small signal behavior in Gattulli, V. et al.[19], Luft, R. W. et al.[20] through an analysis of a
existing models. Wangchen, T. M. et al.[8] conducted seismic perfor­ simple dynamic system consisting of two linear oscillators, studied the
mance and deformation difference control research on an asymmetric passive control performance of viscoelastic dampers that connect adja­
complex coupled structure, and recommended reducing section size cent independent structures. They proposed a design theory for opti­
while ensuring the bearing capacity and stability of connecting mem­ mizing structures based on tuned mass dampers and demonstrated the
bers, and adopting hinged connections to reduce the impact on main feasibility of the theory through verification. Manish Kumar et al.[21]
structural components. In recent years, as structural complexity has conducted compressive failure tests using a concrete strength testing
increased, numerous complex coupled structures have emerged apparatus to examine the geometric and material characteristics, and
frequently. These structures commonly exhibit significant torsional ef­ estimate the mechanical properties, of four different types of rubber
fects caused by their apparent symmetry. Guo, W., Zhai, Z. Lu, X., Lu, X. bearings. Zhu, H. P. et al.[22] optimized the parameters of dampers that
et al.[9,10] used a certain engineering example to demonstrate how they connect two adjacent structures and the dual-tower structure with a
increased the thickness of the floor that connects to the tower and the large podium. The numerical findings demonstrated a significant
tower floor itself by pouring it as a whole, and implemented double- reduction in seismic response and vibration energy for the parallel
layered bidirectional reinforcement to enhance its strength. They also structures. P. Castaldo et al.[23,24] conducted an analysis of the optimal
arranged vertical members in a reasonable manner and took appropriate friction coefficient and evaluated the reliability of friction pendulum
measures to mitigate its torsional deformation during earthquakes. Wu, system (FPS) isolators in the context of seismically isolated bridges.
Q., Feng, H. et al.[11] compared three different structural control They specifically considered the response of FPS isolators with nonlinear
methods, including the traditional seismic isolated structure, the seismic velocity-dependent behavior and put forward a design calculation
isolated structure with a Maxwell-type control device, and the com­ methodology that takes into account seismic reliability factors.
posite passive control method, using an equivalent single-degree-of- Building on the research and findings of the aforementioned
freedom model for vibrational control analysis. The results indicate scholars, this article presents a research approach centered on inter-
that the composite passive control approach was more effective in story isolated structure to enhance vibration control and overall stabil­
controlling the overall vibration of the structure and outperformed the ity of linked dual-tower structures. The proposed solution involves
seismic isolated scheme. D. Cardone et al.[12] conducted an analysis on implementing an isolated layer on both sides of the linked structure,
the seismic performance of existing RC frame structures that underwent utilizing composite three-dimensional isolated supports, and establish­
base isolated retrofit. They found that isolated can effectively mitigate ing a flexible connection between the corridor and tower to create a
damage at the design ultimate limit state level. De-wen, L. I. U. et al.[13] structural control system with energy-absorbing isolated. This research
developed an analytical model for a layered mixed isolated control centers on symmetrical dual-tower high-rise frames linked together,
system that includes additional inertia containers. They derived dy­ utilizing a sophisticated 3D nonlinear finite element program (SAP2000)
namic characteristic formulas for the system and analyzed the effects of for elastic–plastic time-history analysis of the structure. Relevant pa­
calculation parameters on its dynamic behavior. Veletsos, A. S. et al.[14] rameters are analyzed to investigate the vibration isolated performance
proposed a method of generalized modal superposition for evaluating of complex linked structures. Additionally, reaction spectrum analysis is
the dynamic response of linear systems with non-classical damping. conducted on aspects such as the displacement of the isolated layer, base
They compared the exact solution of the system with an approximate shear, and inter-story shear. To provide optimized recommendations for
solution that considers classical damping. Stefano Silvestri et al. [15] similar engineering designs, additional parameter analysis is conducted
conducted an extensive series of shake table tests on full-scale flat- through displacement difference control and corridor design.
bottomed steel silos that were filled with soft wheat. And offers a concise We conducted innovative investigations into the simulated utiliza­
overview of the primary limitations entwined with the seismic design tion of a three-dimensional isolator, comprised of lead rubber isolators
standards pertaining to silos. Shu, T., Li, Q. et al.[16] conducted a study and additional viscous dampers, in different types of dual-tower build­
on the isolated effectiveness of a novel laminated isolated structure ings. Inspired by the research on innovative energy dissipation support

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Table 1 2.2. Project overview

Frame section information table.
Component Section Reinforcement information The high-rise dual-tower connected frame shear wall structure
type size (mm) described in this paper has been designed with a seismic fortification
Net protective Diameter of Longitudinal
layer thickness stirrup (mm) reinforcement level of Class B and a seismic fortification intensity of 8 degrees, with a
(mm) size basic seismic acceleration of 0.2 g. The design earthquake is allocated to
Frame 800 × 60 10 24C 28
the second group and the site category to Class III. The structure com­
column 800 prises of 19 floors (each with a height of 3.3 m), with an isolated floor of
Frame beam 700 × 40 8 Top 2C 18 1.6 m height set on the 6th floor. The 140 mm thick isolated floor has
300 Bottom 4C 22 been selected based on these specifications. Please refer to Table 1 for
more information regarding frame columns and beams. Reinforced bars
have a strength grade of HRB400, the strength grade of stirrups is
systems known as “support-type ductile shear walls” by Giannuzzi, D.
HPB300, and the strength grade of concrete such as beams and columns
et al.[25], we made adjustments to the shear wall design to prevent
is C40. The floor constant load considered is 3 kN/m2 while the floor live
potential component buckling and reduce lateral displacement in dual-
load is 2 kN/m2. The self-weight of the external infilled wall is uniformly
tower structures. Furthermore, we examined the feasibility of imple­
distributed on the exterior frame beam with a uniform load of 10 kN/m.
menting energy dissipation support systems at the connection point of
As for the corridor, a steel frame structure with a span of 15 m has been
the dual towers.
adopted. Fig. 2 illustrates the three-dimensional model of the structure,
with shear walls present on the left and right sides of the four towers.
2. Model description

2.1. The comparison of model schemes 2.3. Layout scheme of conjoined structure and isolated bearing

A combination isolated scheme of inter-story isolated and corridor Based on research conducted by Nan, Z., Kai, M. et al. [26] on seismic
dissipating system is proposed in this article to ensure the optimal design isolated of contiguous structures using energy dissipation isolated
of the inter-story isolated structure for dual-tower. The adverse effects of layers, it is advisable to install the isolated layer on lower floors for
the corridors on the main buildings can be reduced by connecting the optimal seismic isolated effects. To connect contiguous structures, a
corridors to both side tower structures using sliding friction pendulum steel truss structure and elastic seismic isolated device can be utilized to
bearings. The isolated layers are located below the corridors to further attach the corridor with the main building structure. This method has
improve the control performance of the isolated structure and adapt to demonstrated excellent seismic performance in various aspects,
seismic actions at a wider frequency domain. Fig. 1(a) shows the cor­ including structural performance and connection components. Consid­
responding schematic diagram of the seismic performance analysis, ering the anti-torsion effect of the isolated layer and considering the
while Fig. 1(b) shows the corresponding single-tower isolated structure three-dimensional earthquake conditions in combination with the en­
and Fig. 1(c) shows the schematic diagram of the dual-tower isolated gineering practice, the isolated bearing LRB800 is adopted at the bottom
structure. of each column at the 6th floor of the left tower and the right tower, and
a viscous Damper is connected in parallel with it. Rubber isolated

(a) Dual-tower model of

(b) Single-tower isolated model (c) Dual-tower isolated model
base-fixed
Fig. 2. Three-dimensional model of structure.

Table 2
Mechanical properties of bearings.
1
Model Effective diameter Total rubber thickness Yield stiffness /kN • Equivalent horizontal stiffness Vertical stiffness /kN • mm− Yield force /kN
/mm /mm m− 1 /kN • m− 1

LRB800 800 160 17,310 1859 4022 167.5

Vertical compressive Coefficient of kinetic Static friction Effective Variation parameter of friction Radius of sliding
stiffness friction coefficient stiffness coefficient surface
FPS3000 2000 kN/mm 0.05 0.02 1833 kN/m 20 sec/m 3600 mm

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 5. Acceleration response spectrum of earthquake wave.

Fig. 3. Layout of isolated bearings. technologies, leading to higher overall costs in comparison to sliding
friction pendulum bearings. Consequently, a study analysis was con­
ducted employing sliding friction pendulum bearings. Based on the
research of P. Castaldo et al.[23,24] on FPS and in order to reduce the
adverse impact of the corridor on the main buildings on both sides, 15
friction pendulum bearings FPS3000 are arranged at the left and right of
the connection position with the main building, and their parameters are
shown in Table 2. In order to avoid a collision between the corridor and
the main body, the interval width of 400 mm is set. The corridor adopts
steel frame shear wall structure, the upper and lower chords adopt H-
beam (HW 500 × 500 × 20 × 30 mm), and the other components adopt
box-shaped steel beams with specifications of 500 × 500 × 20 mm. The
connection details are shown in Fig. 4.

2.4. Selection of earthquake waves

The earthquake waves employed in the analysis were derived by

considering the geographical location of the actual site and specific
characteristics of the building. This approach facilitated the creation of
acceleration response spectra. Suitable combinations of earthquake
waves were obtained from the PEER database. Recognizing that the
previous model solely incorporated isolated bearings, which were
Fig. 4. Elevation of corridor structure (mm).
deemed inadequate to ensure structural stability during infrequent
earthquake events, the addition of parallel viscous dampers was
bearings, lead-core rubber isolated bearings, and curved surface sliding implemented to enhance overall stability. According to the Technical
isolators have been evaluated as potential options for the isolated Specification for Concrete Structures of High-rise Buildings, if the span
bearings. The final selection of the isolated bearings for the model was of connected structures exceeds 12 m, the standard value of vertical
determined through calculations of the inter-layer and base reactions, as seismic action effect should adopt either the time-history analysis
well as referencing the research conducted by D. De Domenico et al [5]. method or the vibration mode decomposition response spectrum
The specific parameters for the selected isolated bearings are provided in method. The maximum value of seismic acceleration input in time-
Table 2. In terms of the damping characteristics, the equivalent viscous history analysis should be no more than 65 % of the maximum value
damping ratio remains constant regardless of the applied deformation of horizontal input, while the maximum value of structural vertical drop
and is directly influenced by the type of elastic material utilized. influence coefficient in response spectrum analysis can be no more than
Consequently, a low damping ratio has been chosen for this model. The 65 % of horizontal seismic influence coefficient. The first earthquake
parameters of the viscous damper are: damping coefficient C is group is usually used for design. For this particular example, the “High
1200kN • (s/m) 0.5 , damping ratio is 0.5, and Damper element simula­ Code” has selected the time history analysis method, with the maximum
tion is adopted. The layout of single-tower bearings is shown in Fig. 3, acceleration input of earthquake waves adjusted with an X: Y: Z direc­
and the bearing parameters are shown in Table 1. tion ratio of 1:0.85:0.65. The earthquake is categorized into two groups
When compared to sliding friction pendulum bearings, energy with a structural damping ratio of 0.05.
dissipation support systems exhibit superior energy dissipation capacity, This study adheres to seismic design codes and incorporates
enhanced control performance, and reduced maintenance costs. How­ intensity-increasing natural records. The analysis is divided into
ever, these systems entail more intricate design and manufacturing frequent and infrequent ground motions. High PGA/PGV (Peak Ground
processes that necessitate the utilization of advanced materials and Acceleration and Velocity) ratios are linked to short-duration, high-

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Table 3 3. Scheme comparison

Working conditions of earthquake action.
Working condition Earthquake Principal Peak acceleration/ 3.1. Structural modal analysis
number wave direction (cm/s2)

1 FRN wave X 400 Due to the non-linearity of the selected isolated bearings, which
2 Y 340 deviate from the linear vibration theory assumed in modal analysis, the
3 Z 260 main emphasis of modal analysis is on determining the inherent vibra­
4 El-Centro wave X 400 tion modes and frequencies of the structure. This analysis aims to
5 Y 340
6 Z 260
calculate the modal shapes, natural frequencies, and various factors such
7 F-FRN wave X 400 as mass and stiffness participation related to each modal mode. In order
8 Y 340 to address this, the simulation analysis in the present study was con­
9 Z 260 ducted utilizing the Rubber Isolator element available within the
SAP2000 software package. Modal analysis of three-dimensional rare
earthquake waves input by dual-tower model of base-fixed, single-tower
energy seismic inputs in the low-frequency range, while seismic inputs
isolated and dual-tower isolated are carried out respectively. Table 4 is
with low PGA/PGV ratios exhibit longer-duration impulsive motions
the first five natural vibration periods of the three structures.
with high energy content in the high-frequency range. However, these
Table 4 shows that under the rare three-dimensional earthquake, the
ratios alone cannot fully represent ground motion inputs, and the se­
low-order natural vibration period of the dual-tower isolated structure is
lection of records has a minimal impact on seismic response. Hence, rare
prolonged by an average of 212.26 %, and the uplifting effect is
or extreme earthquake records are selected. To further investigate the
approximately 2.1 times larger than that of single-tower isolated struc­
damping effect of the dual-tower isolated seismic structure system under
tures. This result can be attributed to the dual-tower isolated structure’s
three-dimensional earthquake conditions, three earthquake waves
installation of more vertical isolated devices compared to traditional
suitable for Class III sites have been selected for analysis, including the
seismically designed structures, leading to greater flexibility in the iso­
El-Centro wave, FRN wave in Borrego earthquake, and an artificial F-
lated structure system. As a result, the structural natural vibration
FRN wave, with the peak value of earthquake acceleration adjusted to
period prolongation effect is more pronounced, especially for the dual-
400 cm/s2, which corresponds to a rare earthquake with a basic
tower isolated structure. Additionally, the low-order natural vibration
earthquake intensity of 8 degrees. The acceleration response spectrum
period of the horizontal isolated bearing structure is significantly longer
curve of each earthquake wave is displayed in Fig. 5. Earthquake waves
than that of traditional dual-tower model of base-fixed under the in­
are inputted in X, Y, and Z directions simultaneously, with each earth­
fluence of horizontal earthquakes.
quake wave being calculated in X, Y, and Z directions as primary ori­
entations, resulting in a total of 9 working conditions, as summarized in
Table 3.

Table 4
First five natural vibration periods of three structural.
Natural Natural vibration period /s
vibration order
Dual-tower model of base-fixed Single-tower isolated model Dual-tower isolated model

Isolated Traditional horizontal Three-dimensional rare Traditional horizontal Three-dimensional rare Traditional horizontal Three-dimensional rare
category earthquakes earthquakes earthquakes earthquakes earthquakes earthquakes

1 2.45 2.45 6.19 6.19 6.82 7.20

2 2.43 2.43 5.87 5.87 6.45 6.90
3 2.34 2.34 2.90 2.90 5.99 6.39
4 1.22 1.22 2.56 2.56 5.33 5.41
5 1.10 1.10 2.55 2.55 3.03 2.95

Fig. 6. Inter-story displacement of dual-tower isolated structure under three-dimensional earthquake.

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 7. Inter-story displacement of single-tower isolated structure under three-dimensional earthquake.

Fig. 8. Inter-story displacement of dual-tower model of base-fixed under three-dimensional earthquake.

3.2. Seismic response analysis of structural scheme tower experience significant inter-layer displacement mainly because
the corridor is connected to the isolated layer’s upper part in the right
3.2.1. Comparative analysis of isolated effect tower. When subjected to rare earthquakes, the isolated layer of the
To examine the effects of rare, three-dimensional earthquake waves right tower also experiences about 450 mm of inter-layer displacement,
on isolated structures with an identical isolated layer position, three which contributes to an increase in the left tower’s inter-layer
earthquake waves were inputted into three structures. To simulate the displacement stimulated by the corridor. As observed, the single-tower
nonlinear behavior of structures, the geometric nonlinearity theory is isolated structure’s stability is inferior to that of a dual-tower isolated
employed to account for large deformations and displacements occur­ structure, thus demonstrating the superior advantages of connecting
ring during the deformation process. The story displacement results for dual-towers with story-isolated structures.
each structure under the influence of every earthquake wave are illus­ When examining the impact of the corridor on the dual-tower
trated in Figs. 6, 7, and 8. During the calculation of inter-story dis­ without considering their isolated layers and damping devices during
placements, the relative displacement difference criterion is utilized. rare earthquakes, the inter-layer displacement of such dual-tower is
Convergence is established when the relative difference between the presented in Fig. 8. The horizontal earthquake has substantial effects on
inter-story displacements is below the predefined tolerance value of 5 %. both the left and right towers, with the inter-layer displacement of the
As depicted in Fig. 6, during the rare three-dimensional earthquake, upper and lower structures near the corridor experiencing differing in­
the inter-layer displacement of some of the left tower’s structures on the creases to varying degrees. The inter-layer displacement close to the
isolated layer is greater than that of the right tower. However, the dif­ corridor of the left tower is more susceptible than that of the right tower.
ference in amplification range is minor, and overall, both towers’ inter- Compared with the single-tower isolated structure, the seismic response
layer displacement responses are relatively steady under seismic of the single-tower isolated structure has a strong orientation, and the
conditions. overall stability of the structure is not as good as the dual-tower isolated
Based on the findings in Fig. 7, during a three-dimensional ground structure.
motion event, seismic conditions have an adverse impact on the left
tower of the structure. The structures below the eighth floor of the left

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Fig. 9. Comparison of vertical acceleration and vertical basement shear of towers with different schemes under three-dimensional earthquake and traditional
horizontal earthquake.

3.2.2. Vertex vertical acceleration comparison to the superstructure can be achieved through the use of effective ver­
Fig. 9(a) and (b) depict the top floor accelerations of three different tical isolated devices. This results in notable improvements to the ver­
models, including a three-dimensional isolated structure, a traditional tical isolated effect, ultimately lessening the impact on the vertex’s
horizontal isolated structure, and a seismic structure subjected to three- vertical acceleration for single-tower isolated structures, which is
dimensional and traditional horizontal earthquakes. Analysis of the significantly influenced by adjacent tower structures.
Fig. 9(a) and (b) shows that traditional horizontal earthquakes have a
much greater impact on the vertical acceleration of the conjoined dual- 3.2.3. Comparison of vertical basement shear force
tower seismic structure’s apex than the three-dimensional isolated Fig. 9(c) and (d) illustrate the input of three-dimensional rare
structure. After the dual-towers are equipped with vertical isolated de­ earthquake conditions simultaneously to three structural models, dis­
vices simultaneously, the impact of their vertices’ vertical acceleration playing their vertical base shear values. It is observed that under both
decreases by an average of 49.6 %. Upon installing the vertical isolated traditional horizontal earthquake and three-dimensional earthquake
device in the right tower, the vertical acceleration value of the single- conditions, the dual-tower isolated structure exhibits smaller vertical
tower three-dimensional isolated structure is reduced by an average of base shear than the other two structures. Meanwhile, for the action of
42.5 % when compared to the traditional horizontal isolated structure. these same earthquakes, the vertical base shear of the single-tower
It is evident that significant reductions in transferred seismic energy isolated structure closely corresponds to that of the dual-tower

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Table 5
FPS bearing displacement (mm).
FRN El-Centro FFRN

X XY XYZ X XY XYZ X XY XYZ

Dual-tower isolated model Max 118.26 117.81 120.91 102.05 105.06 105.61 113.99 114.48 115.33
Min 96.52 95.06 94.61 92.89 92.38 91.45 103.79 103.63 104.39
Single-tower isolated model Max 542.10 547.13 565.06 538.27 536.46 537.69 339.52 389.07 391.23
Min 231.51 137.23 44.13 304.51 304.56 303.79 286.09 243.14 243.32
Dual-tower model of base-fixed Max 49.31 24.35 17.74 32.08 27.48 16.82 32.25 21.91 14.96
Min 40.58 21.82 14.99 22.96 22.83 13.85 14.32 11.78 12.83

Table 6
Internal force of connecting members.
Structure type Maximum amplitude of bending moment /kN m Maximum amplitude of axial force /kN

FRN El-Centro FFRN FRN El-Centro FFRN

Dual-tower isolated 26.45 10.18 16.13 − 2309.34 − 1513.65 − 1753.83

Single-tower isolated 107.48 37.08 77.06 − 4429.25 − 3883.42 − 3722.39
Dual-tower of base-fixed 106.76 46.30 101.39 − 1398.08 − 708.55 − 990.15

isolated structure. However, it is noteworthy that the vertical base shear seismic joint. In contrast, the maximum displacement of the FPS bearing
of the dual-tower isolated structure reaches high levels under all for the single-tower isolated structure reaches 565.06 mm, which ex­
working conditions. ceeds the preset limit for the seismic joint by 165 %. Notably, the
By comparing the changes in vertical base shear values for the three displacement of the corridor structure in this design is significantly
structural models under traditional horizontal and three-dimensional affected by the left tower structure. The displacement of the FPS bearing
earthquakes, it is evident that implementing effective three- for the model of base-fixed is much smaller than that of the other two
dimensional isolated devices can mitigate the impact of seismic energy structure types. Therefore, implementing three-dimensional isolated
on the upper superstructure. Installing these devices across both dual- layers on both sides of the dual-tower greatly attenuates the influence of
tower structures further reduces transmission of vertical earthquake seismic force on the offset of the corridor. These findings may have
forces to the upper structure, ultimately yielding a more stable vertical significant reference value in selecting anti-seismic joints for corridors.
base shear and improved vertical isolated effect. The connection between the tower and corridor is a crucial aspect of
the corridor structure’s design. Without proper design, vertical earth­
3.2.4. Vibration reduction analysis of corridor quakes can easily damage the corridor. The connecting part between the
The sub-structure design for this project specifies the use of cross corridor and tower utilizes sliding friction pendulum bearing FPS3000,
steel truss structures for the corridors. In particular, a corridor with a with a joint that generates bending moment. In Table 6, the amplitude of
15.0 m span is installed at the the 7th and the bottom of the 9th floors of the bending moment and the maximum axial force of sliding friction
each twin tower, with a cross spacing of 3.0 m. Seismic joints with a pendulum bearing are displayed for different earthquake types. This
width of 400 mm are employed between the main body and the corridor. table reveals that the internal force of the members at the dual-tower
To address potential effects on the towers at either end resulting from isolated structure’s joint is minimally influenced by vertical earth­
deformation properties, sliding friction pendulum (FPS) bearings quakes, in contrast to the significant impact on the other two structures.
equipped with energy dissipation and shock absorption features are
fitted to both ends. Furthermore, FPS also contains a limit reset device to 3.2.5. Comparison of vertical displacement of corridor
prevent displacement under three-dimensional ground motion. Table 5 As sliding friction pendulum bearings at the junction of the corridors
displays the FPS bearing displacements for all three structures. and towers on both sides are key components, their selection is critical.
Table 5 shows that the maximum displacement of the FPS bearing for For all three structural designs, FPS bearings were chosen, and their
the dual-tower isolated structure is 120.91 mm during a rare three- vertical displacement was analyzed to ensure that corridor safety stan­
dimensional earthquake, and satisfies the requirement for the 400 mm dards have been met during rare three-dimensional earthquakes. The

Fig. 10. Vertical displacement of sliding friction pendulum bearing in various schemes.

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 11. Schematic diagram of different isolated layer position models.

displacement, with greater fluctuations between the bearings. Notably,

Table 7
the single-tower isolated structure experiences the most significant
First 5 natural vibration periods of dual-tower isolated structures with different
vertical displacement. Therefore, it is apparent that, of the three designs,
isolated layers.
the dual-tower isolated structure provides the highest level of corridor
Natural vibration Natural vibration period /s safety.
order
Base- 3rd floor 9th floor 12th floor
isolated isolated isolated isolated 4. Analysis of position change and control effect of dual-tower
1 11.19 8.87 5.03 3.65 isolated layer
2 10.51 8.36 5.03 3.65
3 7.30 6.38 5.00 3.61
4.1. Structural modal analysis
4 6.33 6.34 4.97 3.56
5 3.29 3.16 2.97 2.73
Because the position of the isolated layer and corridor significantly
impacts the structure, the initial focus was studying the influence of
vertical displacement of sliding friction pendulum bearings for each isolated layer positioning on the overall structure. Fig. 11 portrays the
design scheme is depicted in Fig. 10. structural schematic diagram featuring intermediate isolated layers at
In this study, the incorporation of additional viscous damping in the the basement, as well as the 3rd, 9th, and 12th floors, respectively.
entire system has been considered. The analysis takes into account the The position of the corridor remains unchanged, and rare three-
inherent damping, as well as the damping characteristics of materials dimensional ground motion was used as input to obtain the first five
and structures. Appropriate viscous dampers have been implemented to natural vibration periods for each structure. These are presented in
further enhance system stability and reduce vibration response. Upon Table 7.
conducting thorough analysis and evaluation, the data variations in From Table 7, it can be deduced that the lower the position of the
Fig. 10(a)-(c) clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of the three- isolated layer in the connected dual-tower base-isolated structure, the
dimensional seismic isolators parallelly connected with viscous greater the extension of the low-order natural vibration period of the
dampers in achieving these objectives. Based on the analysis of sliding structure.
friction pendulum bearing vertical displacement within the corridor
during rare three-dimensional earthquake conditions for each of the 4.2. Time history analysis of structural dynamic response
three structural designs, the dual-tower isolated structure has demon­
strated smaller vertical displacement and minimal fluctuation between Three-dimensional rare earthquake waves were input simulta­
different bearings. Meanwhile, the single-tower isolated structure and neously into the isolated structure with seismic layers at different po­
dual-tower seismic structure have exhibited larger vertical sitions. Result from the left tower bearing the brunt of the rare

Fig. 12. Inter-story displacement and shear force of left tower of base-isolated.

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 13. Inter-story displacement and inter-story shear force of the left tower of the 3rd floor isolated structure.

Fig. 14. Inter-story displacement and inter-story shear force of the left tower of the 9rd floor isolated structure.

earthquake, Figs. 12-15 shows the inter-layer displacement and inter- stable, however, the presence of the corridor leads to an increase in
layer shear force of the left tower. inter-layer displacement in the upper part of the isolated layer. Addi­
When the isolated layer is set on the basement without changing the tionally, inter-layer shear force is highly influenced by horizontal
position of the corridor, Fig. 12 shows the displacement and shear force earthquake waves in the lower part of the isolated layer which converge
of the left tower’s each story. It can be observed that the isolated layer towards the upper part of the isolated layer. Moreover, the inter-layer
effectively absorbs earthquake energy, leading to strong stability in the shear force on the top of the corridor on the 10th floor appears to
upper part of the structure when rare earthquakes occur. However, the converge again. This highlights the significant impact of both the posi­
story shear force is impacted by the corridor. The corridor is incorpo­ tion of the isolated layer and the corridor on the overall stability of the
rated between the 9th and 10th floors, resulting in a reduction of over structure.
60 % in the story shear force in the parts of the structure above the 10th To visually demonstrate the impact of the corridor and isolated layer
floor. This highlights the significant impact of the corridor positioning positions on the dual-tower structure during rare three-dimensional
on the story shear force of the structure. earthquake conditions, the isolated layer was installed at the 9th and
Fig. 13 depicts the stability of the conjoined dual-tower structure 12th floors-above the corridor. Figs. 14 and 15 show that, compared to
under a rare three-dimensional earthquake when isolated on the 3rd the base-isolated structure and the 3rd floor of isolated structure, the
floor. It can be observed that inter-layer displacement is relatively inter-story displacement and inter-story shear force of the structure were

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 15. Inter-story displacement and inter-story shear force of the left tower of the 12th floor isolated structure.

dimensional base isolated bearings at various positions within the iso­

Table 8
lated layer. These displacements are calculated considering the effects of
Maximum horizontal displacement of LRB800 isolated bearing (mm).
rare seismic actions. Likewise, Table 9 showcases the maximum
FRN wave El-Centro wave F-FRN wave displacement of the viscous dampers. It can be seen that the maximum
Base-isolated 275.15 254.64 255.98 horizontal displacement of the isolated bearing of the base-isolated
3rd floor isolated 197.23 191.52 195.92 structure is 275.15 mm, less than 440 mm, which meets the limit re­
6th floor isolated 176.15 172.84 174.96 quirements of LRB800. As the isolated layer moves up, the horizontal
9th floor isolated 116.92 114.65 115.62
12th floor isolated 81.49 79.54 81.79
displacement of the isolated bearing decreases gradually, and the
viscous damper and LRB800 isolated bearing work together to effec­
tively reduce the input of seismic energy to the superstructure.
In order to ensure that the isolated bearing of the dual-tower isolated
Table 9
structure can work normally under the rare earthquake of 7 degrees, it is
Maximum horizontal displacement of viscous damper (mm).
necessary to check the tensile and compressive stress of the isolated
FRN wave El-Centro wave F-FRN wave bearing. According to the Code for Seismic Design of Buildings, under
Base-isolated 273.49 253.23 252.17 the action of rare earthquakes, the tensile stress of isolated bearings
3rd floor isolated 197.43 191.56 195.26 should not exceed 1 MPa, and the limit value of compressive stress
6th floor isolated 175.72 172.761 174.39
should be 30 MPa. Among the 100 base-isolated bearings in the dual-
9th floor isolated 116.91 113.15 115.36
12th floor isolated 81.23 79.18 80.45 tower isolated structure, the maximum compressive stress is 17.53
MPa, which is less than the limit value of the compressive stress code.
When the load is − 1.0(Horizontal earthquake), the maximum tensile
significantly reduced. Furthermore, the displacement of the isolated stress of the base-isolated bearing is 0.72 MPa, which meets the
layer decreased substantially, and there was no deviation between the requirement of less than 1.0 MPa in the code. The maximum horizontal
inter-story displacement of the upper and lower parts of the isolated axial force of viscous damper is 519.48kN and the minimum is
structure. The inter-story shear force of the lower part of the corridor 446.197kN, which further controls the displacement of isolated layer to
was higher than that of the upper part, resulting in a more pronounced some extent and effectively prevents the displacement of bearing from
effect under horizontal seismic activity. exceeding the limit.
Setting the isolated layer above the corridor has been proven to
effectively reduce the impact of the corridor on the overall structure and
4.4. Seismic response analysis of corridor
enhance the safety of the main structures of the left and right towers.

The numerical model of the conjoined twin towers depends on a

4.3. Checking calculation of three-dimensional isolated layer range of parameters and numerical methods, including material prop­
erties and site conditions. These parameters are usually obtained
The maximum horizontal displacement of each isolated bearing in through experiments or estimations, which introduce a certain level of
the isolated layer under the action of a rare earthquake should be less error and uncertainty. Therefore, the accuracy and reliability of the
than 0.55d = 440 mm (in this calculation example, the unified isolated numerical model are influenced by these parameters.
bearing LRB800 with a diameter of 800 mm is adopted). And less than 3 The dynamic time-history response analysis of dual-tower isolated
tr = 640 mm (the total thickness of the rubber layer of the isolated structures with different isolated layers and comparison results of
bearing is 160 mm), the load combination used for calculating the various structural indicate that the corridor has a significant influence
horizontal displacement of the isolated layer is: 1.0 × (Dead load) + 0.5 on story displacement and shear force of both side towers during
× (Live load) + 1.0 × (Horizontal earthquake). Table 8 displays the earthquakes. To further study this impact, three major structural models
maximum horizontal displacement of LRB800 within the three- were selected: the base-isolated structure model,the 3rd-floor isolated

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

Fig. 16. Comparison of relative displacement (mm) nephogram of corridor of base-isolated structure,3rd-floor isolated structure and 6th-floor isolated structure.

Fig. 17. Comparison of relative velocity (mm/s) nephogram of corridor of base-isolated structure,3rd floor isolated structure and 6th floor isolated structure.

Fig. 18. Comparison of relative acceleration (mm/s2) nephogram of corridor of base-isolated structure,3rd-floor isolated structure and 6th-floor isolated structure.

structure model, and the 6th-floor isolated structure model, which deformation.
exhibited considerable impact on story displacement and shear force in When compared to other models, the 6th-floor isolated structure
the dual-tower’ time history analysis results. Additionally, under rare model has higher deformation stability and more effective isolated in
three-dimensional earthquake conditions, The deformation of the terms of seismic response impact on the corridor structure.
corridor structure was compared and analyzed, as well as relative
displacement, velocity, and acceleration of the three structures under 5. Conclusion
the most unfavorable working conditions.
From Fig. 16, it can be observed that the relative displacement of the This paper establishes an isolated layer in the dual-tower on both
corridors of the three structures is small under the rare three- sides of the jointed structure, creating a corridor structure control sys­
dimensional earthquake. From Fig. 17, it can be seen that the relative tem that is flexibly connected and incorporates energy dissipation and
speed of the corridors in the base-isolated structure has changed greatly, shock absorption. The positioning of isolated layers, conjoined structure
and the whole structure of the corridors is obviously in a loaded working design, and overall isolated performance response of the conjoined dual-
state. Compared with other structures, the relative position of the iso­ tower structure type are analyzed. Our study undertakes an innovative
lated layer of the base-isolated structure is the farthest, which proves exploration of the benefits offered by the conjoined dual-tower struc­
that the working state of the corridors is restricted by the position tural design, the selection methodology for critical energy dissipation
change of the isolated layer. The closer the corridor structure is to the devices, as well as the individual analysis of the performance demon­
isolated layer, the higher the relative speed of the corridor structure is. strated by the connecting elements within diverse structures. This
Fig. 18 shows that the relative acceleration of the lower part of the research showcases the exceptional seismic performance of the overall
corridor gradually decreases from the bottom of the corridor in the structure, particularly in the face of rare seismic events.
model of dual-tower isolated structure with isolated layer at the the 3rd The significant conclusions are listed as follows:
floor, and it can be concluded that the setting of sliding friction
pendulum bearing has a obvious buffer effect on this type of

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F. Peng et al. Ain Shams Engineering Journal 14 (2023) 102538

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[email protected].

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