Structural control

Structural control refers to the application of various techniques to mitigate and manage the vibrations and dynamic responses of a structure. Structural control is particularly important for structures that are susceptible to dynamic loading, e.g. tall buildings, long-span bridges, and aerospace structures. It helps improve occupant comfort, prevents excessive wear, reduces the risk of fatigue and structural failure, and ensures that the structure remains safe and functional even under extreme conditions. One of the primary applications of structural control is in earthquake engineering, where systems like base isolators and tuned mass dampers are used to protect buildings and other structures from the destructive effects of seismic events. Furthermore, structural control plays a crucial role in minimizing vibrations in other scenarios, such as wind-induced vibrations in skyscrapers and vibrations caused by traffic loads in bridges.