Modeling of Magnetorheological Self-Centering Brace

Abstract

The self-centering brace (SCB) is a high-capacity structural component for lateral force resistance and recentering. This paper focuses on modeling the magnetorheological self-centering brace (MR–SCB). Full-scale cyclic tests of the MR–SCB under sine waves are conducted. Results indicate that the MR–SCB exhibits a full flag-shaped force-displacement response with high energy dissipation and recentering capabilities. Three mechanical models of the MR–SCB are proposed to reproduce the hysteretic behaviors. Predicted errors of the modified Bouc–Wen-based model are smaller than those of the other two models. Considering high numerical convergence and low computational cost, the modified Bouc–Wen-based model is the best choice for prediction, and 12 model parameters are analyzed to determine reasonable values. Due to earthquake excitation, the hysteretic response of the MR–SCB is fuller than that of the existing SCB, indicating greater energy dissipation.