Modal Analysis of a Linked Cantilever Flexible Building System

This study proposes a modal analysis for a simplified model of a linked building system, i.e., a system consisting of two adjacent tall buildings connected through links such as skybridges or skygardens. The simplified model was developed by modeling each building as a cantilever beam and allowing for the effects of varying link mass, axial stiffness, bending stiffness, and link location. The analytical solutions for the modal properties of the simplified model were then derived by solving the characteristic equations in the related boundary value problem. After validating the accuracy of the analytical solution by comparing it with the associated finite-element model (FEM), the effects of the link parameters on the modal properties, and the wind-induced responses of the system were examined by using these analytical solutions. Meaningful results were obtained and discussed. The analytical solution and results can be used for rapidly evaluating the modal properties of the linked building systems and for optimally designing the link during the preliminary design stage. © 2015 American Society of Civil Engineers.