Fluid inerter-based vibration control of multi-modal structures subjected to vertical vibration

The so-called inerter is an attracting device that offers a solution to the goal of realizing or improving structural control devices with high mass ratios while avoiding the undesirable increase in dead load. The research presented here focuses on evaluating the performance of a fluid inerter in mitigating vertical vibrations of structures that exhibit multi-modal behavior, such as plates. First, a numerical study based on previous experimental data investigates the properties of the connection between the inerter and the structure to be controlled. Considering that a flexible connection has been shown to introduce a linearization effect, while a rigid connection of the inerter to the controlled structure can achieve significant displacement reductions, the influence of these two connection types over different inertance ratios is analyzed. To evaluate the practical suitability of the flexible connection to reduce the inherent nonlinear effects associated with the device, a novel application of the fluid inerter for vibration control in multi-modal structures is presented, exemplified by a cross-laminated timber panel, and compares its control performance with that of a conventional Tuned Mass Damper (TMD). This provides insight into the effectiveness of the inerter in controlling vertical vibrations. In addition, optimization procedures are employed to determine connection parameters that enhance the effectiveness of both the TMD and the inerter in mitigating vertical vibrations. •Assessment of the connection properties of a fluid inerter.•Experimental testing on a fluid inerter for vertical vibration control.•Performance control comparison with a traditional Tuned Mass Damper.•Optimization of the devices’ for multi-modal structures control.