Building seismic response attenuation using robust control and architectural cladding

Robust control methods are used to design a hybrid control system that includes an active tensioning (bracing) system and a passive control system consisting of rigid cladding panels connected to the building with ductile (hysteretic) connection elements. Mu-synthesis control design methods are shown to yield controllers that remain stable and effective in the presence of significant stiffness changes in the structure (plant) introduced by the addition of the passive hysteretic damping. Controller stability is achieved in exchange for reduced nominal performance and increased controller complexity. The result is an overall 84% reduction in the peak response from the uncontrolled, undamped system.