Seismic Performance Evaluation for a Traditional Chinese Timber-frame Structure

This paper presents a study on dynamic characteristics and seismic responses of traditional Chinese timber-frame structures. Micro-tremor measurements were conducted to obtain natural frequencies, vibration modes, and damping ratios. A three-dimensional numerical model considering unique connections, the mass of roof and wooden floor, and adobe walls was developed by ANSYS software and calibrated with the data from prior on-site test. Seismic responses including time histories responses, inter-structural layer drift angles, and isolation characteristics were further discussed. Results indicate that both mortise-tenon joints and the Dougong brackets play an essential role in the vibration isolation and strong lateral force resistance. Also, Dougong fully deforms under the major earthquakes, thereby dissipating more seismic energy. The lateral stiffness of column-beam frame is lower than that of the roof truss. The seismic abilities of the whole structure under the Lanzhou wave are smaller than those under the El Centro wave and the Taft wave.