Hierarchical Clustering-Based Collapse Mode Identification and Design Optimization of Energy-Dissipation Braces Inspired by the Triangular Resch Pattern

In recent years, energy-dissipation devices have gained significant attention in seismic protection engineering because of their effectiveness in mitigating the destructive effects of earthquakes. Inspired by an origami pattern invented by Ron Resch, in this study, we propose a novel type of energy-dissipation brace to guide the deformation process and prevent the global buckling of engineering structures. To this end, a parametric geometric model is developed, followed by exploring the effects of different geometric parameters on structural collapse modes. Subsequently, by using hierarchical clustering, the collapse modes are classified into four groups. Finally, an optimal design is introduced to improve energy absorption during quasi-static axial crushing while reducing the initial peak force. The results show specific parameters play a decisive role in determining the collapse modes of the structures. Each group is associated with a particular force-displacement curve characterized by specific properties. We demonstrate that the proposed structural design optimization process reduces the initial peak force by 15.6% without affecting the specific energy absorption. This study provides insights into the application of origami-inspired structures in the design and development of high-performance energy-dissipation braces.