Adaptive Pendulum-Tuned Mass Damper Based on Adjustable-Length Cable for Skyscraper Vibration Control

The dynamic control of vibrations in skyscrapers is a critical consideration in sustainable building design, particularly in response to environmental excitations such as wind impact or seismic activity. Effective vibration neutralisation plays a crucial role in providing the safety of high-rise buildings. This research introduces an innovative concept for an active vibration damper that operates based on fluid dynamic transport to adaptively alter a skyscraper’s natural frequency, thereby counteracting resonant vibrations. A distinctive feature of this system is an adjustable-length cable mechanism, allowing for the dynamic modification of the pendulum’s effective length in real time. The structure, based on cable length adjustment, enables the PTMD to precisely tune its natural frequency to variable excitation conditions, thereby improving damping during transient or resonance phenomena of the building’s dynamic behaviour. A comprehensive mathematical model based on Lagrangian mechanics outlines the governing equations for this system, capturing the interactions between pendulum motion, fluid flow, and the damping forces necessary to maintain stability. Simulation analyses examine the role of initial excitation frequency and variable damping coefficients, revealing critical insights into optimal damper performance under varied structural conditions. The findings indicate that the proposed pendulum damper effectively mitigates resonance risks, paving the way for sustainable skyscraper design through enhanced structural adaptability and resilience. This adaptive PTMD, featuring an adjustable-length cable, provides a solution for creating safe and energy-efficient skyscraper designs, aligning with sustainable architectural practices and advancing future trends in vibration management technology. The study presented in this article supports the development of modern skyscraper design, with a focus on dynamic vibration control for sustainability and structural safety. It combines advanced numerical modelling, data-driven control algorithms, and experimental validation. From a sustainability perspective, the proposed PTMD system reduces the need for oversized structural components by providing adaptive, efficient damping, thereby lowering material consumption and embedded carbon. Through dynamically retuning structural stiffness and mass, the proposed PTMD enhances resilience and energy efficiency in skyscrapers, lowers lifetime energy use associated with passive damping devices, and enhances occupant comfort. This aligns with global sustainability objectives and new-generation building standards.