Active control of a tall structure excited by wind

Abstract A control strategy is developed for application to a flexible laboratory structure excited by simulated wind forces for the purpose of minimizing along-wind accelerations. Static and dynamic characteristics of the structure are identified through a modal analysis method that formulates a linear model of the system. Actual wind speed data is used to produce a simulated wind loading by means of drag forces. An LQG/LTR control strategy based on acceleration feedback is used in conjunction with a magnetorheological (MR) damper to reduce structural response. When a strong wind loading is applied to the structure, the control force notably reduces simulated peak floor accelerations.