Finite Element Modeling and Seismic Performance of Uni‐RIBS in Bridges under Maximum Considered Earthquakes

ABSTRACT Although various resilient bridge structures utilizing rocking behavior in core components have been studied over the past decade, the application of rocking mechanisms to bridge bearings, forming the Rocking Isolation Bearing System (RIBS), has only recently been explored. Two configurations of RIBS have been proposed: Uni‐RIBS, which control longitudinal seismic responses, and Bi‐RIBS, which provide bidirectional control. Previous analytical and experimental studies have clarified the fundamental characteristics of RIBS, including rocking motion, negative stiffness, and response‐control mechanisms distinct from those of conventional isolation bearings. This study further advances the development of Uni‐RIBS by investigating resilience enhancement strategies, seismic response characteristics, and performance under maximum considered earthquakes (MCE). To capture the complex dynamic behavior and accommodate diverse structural configurations, a finite element (FE) model of Uni‐RIBS is developed and validated using shaking‐table test data. The validated model is then implemented in a full‐scale highway bridge model, in which cable restrainers are introduced as a resilience enhancement measure to improve system stability and anti‐overturning capacity. The analysis examines the effects of key design variables, including sliding clearance, inclination angle, bearing size, cable restrainers, and earthquake types, on critical seismic performance indicators. The distributions of these indicators in the performance space are further analyzed to identify variation, trade‐offs, and optimal design conditions. In addition, a comparative analysis with a bridge model equipped with lead rubber bearings (LRBs) is conducted. The results clarify several distinctive characteristics of implementing Uni‐RIBS in bridge systems and demonstrate its potential for resilient seismic design.