Pounding of buildings modelled by an impact oscillator

Pounding of adjacent buildings is modelled by an impact oscillator subjected to harmonic excitation. Non‐linear impact stiffness is represented by a Hertz‐type relationship. Spectra of impact velocity are presented for a range of model parameters. These spectra are characterized by a strong peak near a period equal to one half the natural period of a similar non‐impacting oscillator. Bands of response are found in which periodic multiple impacts and non‐periodic or chaotic impacts occur.