On the evolution of energy dissipation devices for seismic design

A review of the evolution of energy dissipation devices of hysteretic type is presented. Both friction and yielding devices are included in the paper covering a worldwide range of applications. Due to the increasingly large number of available devices, the paper does not attempt to present a state-of-the art on the subject, but to focus on discussing the main original research efforts that have paved the way of the current technology of energy dissipation devices. Relevant past applications of devices are briefly described making particular emphasis on important issues such as experimental assessment, effectiveness of their modelling by nonlinear analysis techniques, materials and constructability. Devices selected for discussion in the paper are presented in a historical perspective and are considered pioneer original steps or research efforts directed towards an efficient and rational use of energy dissipation technology.