Shape memory alloy-based smart buildings

Two novel shape memory alloy (SMA) dampers with special configurations are developed by authors. These dampers also simultaneously play a role of displacement transducers. The energy dissipation capability of these dampers is experimentally studied. Additionally, the sensing properties of the damper/displacement transducers are also investigated through tests. A series of shaking table tests of a building model incorporated with these SMA dampers/displacement transducers are carried out. The results indicate that SMA damper can effectively suppress the drift as well as relative displacement. The drift recorded by SMA dampers/displacement transducers is almost the same with that recorded by displacement transducer (LVDT). Therefore, the SMA damper/displacement transducer can play the role of displacement transducers with high accuracy. Considering SMA dampers/displacement transducers can measure the time history of drift between the interstory of buildings, the earthquake-induced damage of the structure can be identified by analysis of the measured drift.