Damping mechanism

Abstract

To inhibit excessive deformation of a structure in the event of a large earthquake and secure habitability of the structure in the event of a small or medium earthquake.SOLUTION: A damping mechanism damps relative reciprocating-motion between a first object and a second object. The damping mechanism does not generate a damping force when a relative displacement between the first object and the second object in the reciprocating-motion is in a predetermined range and generates the damping force when the relative displacement exceeds the predetermined range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a damping mechanism. [Background technology]

[0002] In addition to seismic isolation devices that suppress vibrations transmitted to structures due to earthquakes, damping devices that attenuate vibrations are sometimes used. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-205413 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, when a large earthquake occurs, there is a possibility that excessive deformation will occur in a structure. Therefore, by adding a damping device to a structure, it is possible to effectively reduce the response when a large earthquake occurs and suppress the excessive deformation that occurs in the structure. However, if the damping force of the damping device becomes excessive, it may impair the habitability of the structure when a small or medium earthquake occurs.

[0005] One example of the object of the present invention is to suppress excessive deformation of a structure when a large earthquake occurs, and to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium earthquake occurs. Other objects of the present invention will become apparent from the description of this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a damping mechanism that damps relative reciprocating motion between a first object and a second object, which does not generate a damping force when the relative displacement between the first object and the second object during the reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, and generates a damping force when the relative displacement exceeds the predetermined range.

[0007] Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and drawings. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the above-described aspects of the present invention, excessive deformation of a structure when a large earthquake occurs can be suppressed, and the habitability of the structure can be ensured when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an application example of the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Fig. 2A is a front view of the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment in a reference position, and Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 2A. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a state when the second object 3 is displaced by L on the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second object 3 is displaced by L+d to the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the restoring force characteristics of the structure 100 by the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view of the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example in the reference position. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second object 3 is displaced by L to the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second object 3 is displaced by L+d to the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the restoring force characteristics of the structure 100 by the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a damping mechanism 10B of the second modified example. [Figure 11] Fig. 11A is a view of a damping mechanism 10C of a third modified example as viewed from the axial direction, and Fig. 11B is a perspective view of the damping mechanism 10C of the third modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a front view of a damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment in the reference position. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second object 3 is displaced by L to the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the second object 3 is displaced by L+d to the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the restoring force characteristics of the structure 100 by the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] At least the following matters will become clear from the description of this specification and the accompanying drawings.

[0011] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The same or equivalent components, members, etc. shown in each drawing are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted where appropriate.

[0012] ==First Embodiment== 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an application example of the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG.

[0013] <<Definition of direction etc.>> First, with reference to FIG. 1, directions and the like in the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment will be defined.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, directions that are parallel to the ground (here, a horizontal plane) and perpendicular to each other are defined as the "+X direction" and the "+Y direction." The direction opposite to the +X direction is defined as the "-X direction," and the direction opposite to the +Y direction is defined as the "-Y direction." Furthermore, the vertical direction from a first object 1 (described below) of the structure 100 toward a second object 3 (described below) is defined as the "+Z direction." The direction opposite to the +Z direction (i.e., the vertical direction from the second object 3 toward the first object 1) is defined as the "-Z direction."

[0015] The +X direction, -X direction, +Y direction, -Y direction, +Z direction, and -Z direction are each a fixed direction. Instead of fixed directions as described above, both the +X direction and the -X direction may be simply referred to as the "X direction." Similarly, both the +Y direction and the -Y direction may be simply referred to as the "Y direction." Furthermore, both the +Z direction and the -Z direction may be simply referred to as the "Z direction." In the structure 100 to which the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment is applied, the "X direction" is also the direction of the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3.

[0016] 1, the +X direction, +Y direction, and +Z direction are each represented by a line segment with an arrow to facilitate understanding of the directions in the damping mechanism 10. Note that the intersection of these line segments with an arrow does not represent the coordinate origin.

[0017] The above definitions of directions and the like are common to other embodiments in this specification unless otherwise specified.

[0018] <<Summary>> <Application example> 1, a structure 100 to which the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment is applied has a first object 1 and a second object 3. In the structure 100 of this embodiment, the first object 1 is a structure below the ground, such as a foundation, and the second object 3 is a structure above the ground, such as a building.

[0019] In the structure 100 of this embodiment, a seismic isolation device 5 is installed between the first object 1 and the second object 3. The seismic isolation device 5 is, for example, a bearing such as an elastic sliding bearing or a rolling bearing. However, the seismic isolation device 5 may also be a laminated rubber. The second object 3 is supported on the first object 1 via the seismic isolation device 5. For example, when vibrations are transmitted to the structure 100 due to an earthquake, the first object 1 and the second object 3 undergo a relative reciprocating motion while the vibrations are suppressed by the seismic isolation device 5. Hereinafter, the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3 may be referred to as a "relative reciprocating motion" or simply as a "reciprocating motion."

[0020] In the following explanation, the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3 may be explained as the motion of the second object 3 as seen from the first object 1. In other words, as seen from the first object 1, the second object 3 makes a reciprocating motion in the +X side and the -X side.

[0021] The application example of the damping mechanism 10 shown in FIG. 1 is merely an example, and is not limited to the above application example. The damping mechanism 10 may be applied to structures other than a structure 100 in which a seismic isolation device 5 is installed in the foundation (a structure with a so-called base isolation structure). For example, the damping mechanism 10 may be applied to an application example in which the damping mechanism 10 is installed together with a seismic isolation device in the intermediate layer of the structure, a so-called intermediate layer seismic isolation structure. Furthermore, the application is not limited to structures with a seismic isolation structure, and may also be applied to structures with a vibration control structure. When applied to a structure with a vibration control structure, the damping mechanism 10 is installed between the layers.

[0022] The damping mechanism 10 is a mechanism that damps the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3. The damping mechanism 10 is installed between the first object 1 and the second object 3, as shown in FIG.

[0023] <Features> The damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment can suppress excessive deformation occurring in the structure 100, for example, when a major earthquake occurs. Excessive deformation is deformation occurring in a structure that has a significant impact on the safety performance and usability of the structure. The damping mechanism 10 can effectively reduce the response when a major earthquake occurs and suppress excessive deformation. Furthermore, the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment can also ensure the habitability of the structure when, for example, a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0024] Specifically, the damping mechanism 10 does not generate a damping force when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion between them is within a predetermined range. Furthermore, the damping mechanism 10 generates a damping force when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion between them exceeds the predetermined range. As a result, the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment can suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a major earthquake occurs (i.e., when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion exceeds the predetermined range), and can also ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium earthquake occurs (i.e., when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within the predetermined range).

[0025] <<Configuration>> The configuration of the damping mechanism 10 having the above-mentioned characteristics will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B.

[0026] Fig. 2A is a front view of the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment in a reference position, and Fig. 2B is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Fig. 2A.

[0027] The damping mechanism 10 includes a damping force generating mechanism 11, a control mechanism 12, and a connection mechanism 50.

[0028] The damping force generation mechanism 11 is a mechanism that generates a damping force that damps the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3. In the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment, the damping force generation mechanism 11 is a friction damper, and the damping force is a friction force caused by the friction damper. As shown in FIG. 2 , the damping force generation mechanism 11 has a +X-side friction damper 111 arranged on the +X side and a -X-side friction damper 112 arranged on the -X side. The +X-side friction damper 111 and the -X-side friction damper 112 generate a friction force (i.e., a damping force) in association with the relative movement between a first member 121 (described later) and a second member 122 (described later) of the control mechanism 12. Note that the damping force generation mechanism 11 of this embodiment has both the +X-side friction damper 111 and the -X-side friction damper 112, but is not limited to this. The damping force generation mechanism 11 may have only one of the +X-side friction damper 111 and the -X-side friction damper 112.

[0029] The control mechanism 12 is a mechanism that controls the generation of a damping force that damps the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3. The control mechanism 12 has a first member 121, a second member 122, and a pin mechanism 123.

[0030] The first member 121 is a member connected to the first object 1 so as to perform a relative reciprocating motion together with the first object 1. In the control mechanism 12 of this embodiment, the first member 121 is a surface member arranged perpendicular to the XY plane (horizontal plane) as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, and is connected to the first object 1 at its lower end by the connection mechanism 50. As a result, the first member 121 also performs a relative reciprocating motion in response to the relative reciprocating motion of the first object 1. When viewed in the X direction (i.e., when viewed in the direction shown in FIG. 2B), the first member 121 is located between the second member 122 and the support portion 41 of the pin mechanism 123. Note that the positional relationship between the first member 121, the second member 122, and the support portion 41 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2B. The positional relationship between the first member 121, the second member 122, and the support portion 41 is arbitrary; for example, the second member 122 may be located between the first member 121 and the support portion 41.

[0031] A first region 20 is formed in the first member 121. The first region 20 is a region in which a pin member 42 (described later) of the pin mechanism 123 is disposed. In the first member 121 of this embodiment, the first region 20 is a hole (specifically, an elongated hole) through which the pin member 42 is inserted, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. However, the first region 20 may be, for example, a depression (recess), and may have any shape in which the pin member 42 is slidably positioned. The first region 20 has a first non-damping region 21 and a first damping region 22.

[0032] The first non-damping region 21 is a region formed in a non-damping range where no damping force is generated. The pin member 42 is located in the first non-damping region 21 when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range. As shown in FIG. 2A , the first non-damping region 21 is composed of a central portion extending in the X direction and portions extending diagonally upward from both ends of the central portion in the X direction. When the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, the first non-damping region 21 is located so as to overlap with a second region 30 (described below) of the second member 122, as shown in FIG. 2A . In addition, the first non-damping region 22 is connected to both ends of the first non-damping region 21 in the X direction (i.e., the direction of the relative reciprocating motion) so as to be continuous with the first non-damping region 22 (i.e., the pin member 42 is slidable continuously from the first non-damping region 21).

[0033] The first damping region 22 is a region formed in a damping range where a damping force is generated. The first damping region 22 is a region where the pin member 42 is located when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion exceeds a predetermined range. The first damping region 22 extends in the X direction from the connection position with the first non-damping region 21 (i.e., both ends of the first non-damping region 21 in the X direction). The first non-damping region 21 and the first damping region 22 are arranged in communication with each other but offset in the in-plane direction of the first member 121, which is a surface material.

[0034] The second member 122 is a member that can move relative to the first member 121 in the X direction (i.e., the direction of the relative reciprocating motion). As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the second member 122 is a surface material that is arranged parallel to the first member 121 and perpendicular to the XY plane (horizontal plane). When viewed in the X direction (i.e., when viewed in the direction shown in FIG. 2B), the second member 122 is located on the -Y side of the first member 121. Note that the position of the second member 122 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2B. The second member 122 may be located in any position, for example, on the +Y side of the first member 121.

[0035] The second member 122 has a second region 30 formed therein. The second region 30 is a region in which a pin member 42 (described later) of the pin mechanism 123 is disposed. In the second member 122 of this embodiment, the second region 30 is a hole (specifically, an elongated hole) through which the pin member 42 is inserted, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. However, the second region 30 may be, for example, a recess (concave portion), as long as the pin member 42 is slidably positioned therein. As shown in FIG. 2A, the second region 30 is composed of a portion located at the center extending in the X direction and portions extending obliquely upward from both ends of the central portion in the X direction. In other words, the second region 30 is formed in the same shape as the first non-attenuation region 21 of the first region 20. Furthermore, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, the second region 30 is positioned so as to overlap with the first non-attenuation region 21 of the first region 20, as shown in FIG. 2A.

[0036] The pin mechanism 123 is a mechanism that connects the first member 121 and the second member 122 so that relative movement between them is possible in accordance with the relative reciprocating motion between the first object 1 and the second object 3. The pin mechanism 123 has a support portion 41 and a pin member 42.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2A, the support portion 41 supports the pin member 42 so that it can move in the Z direction, and is fixed to the second object 3. This connects the pin member 42 so that it can move back and forth relative to the second object 3. In other words, the pin member 42 also moves back and forth relative to the second object 3 as the second object 3 moves back and forth relative to the pin member 42. When viewed in the X direction (i.e., when viewed in the direction shown in FIG. 2B), the support portion 41 is located on the +Y side of the first member 121. Note that the position of the support portion 41 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2B. The support portion 41 may be located in any position, and may be located on the -Y side of the first member 121, for example.

[0038] The pin member 42 is a part that connects the first member 121 and the second member 122 to enable relative movement between them. As shown in FIG. 2B , the pin member 42 is inserted through the support portion 41, the first member 121, and the second member 122. The pin member 42 is positioned so that its longitudinal direction is the Y direction. Therefore, in the following description, when viewed in the Y direction (i.e., when viewed in the direction shown in FIG. 2A ), it may be referred to as "when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the pin member 42." As will be described later, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, the pin member 42 is located in the first non-damping region 21 (and the overlapping second region 30). When the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion exceeds the predetermined range, the pin member 42 is located at the end of the second region 30 and in the first damping region 22. At this time, the pin member 42 moves while pressing the second member 122, causing the first member 121 and the second member 122 to move relative to each other (frictional forces are applied by the +X-side friction damper 111 and the -X-side friction damper 112). The pin member 42 is guided through the first non-damping region 21 or the first damping region 22 in accordance with the relative movement between the first member 121 and the second member 122.

[0039] The connection mechanism 50 restricts movement of the first member 121 relative to the first object 1 in the X direction (i.e., the direction of reciprocating motion), and guides movement of the first member 121 relative to the first object 1 in the Y direction (i.e., a specific orthogonal direction orthogonal to the direction of reciprocating motion of the first member 121 relative to the first object 1). In the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment, the connection mechanism 50 is configured, for example, by pins and rollers. However, the connection mechanism 50 may be configured by a mechanism other than pins and rollers.

[0040] <<Operation>> Hereinafter, the operation of the damping mechanism 10 having the above-described configuration will be described with reference again to FIGS. 2A and 2B and also with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0041] Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment when the second object 3 is displaced by L toward the +X side relative to the first object 1. Fig. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment when the second object 3 is displaced by L+d toward the +X side relative to the first object 1.

[0042] In the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment, the predetermined range of relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during relative reciprocating motion is assumed to be the predetermined range of relative displacement associated with vibrations when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs. In this case, the relative displacement associated with vibrations when a large earthquake occurs will exceed the predetermined range. In the damping mechanism 10 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2A , the reference position is set to the center of the X direction of the first non-damping region 21 when the pin member 42, which is connected to the second object 3 so as to perform relative reciprocating motion with the second object 3, and the predetermined range is set to a range of L on the +X side and L on the -X side from the reference position.

[0043] When the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, the pin member 42 is located in the first non-damping region 21 (and the overlapping second region 30). Specifically, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within the predetermined range, the pin member 42 simply slides back and forth within the first non-damping region 21 (and the overlapping second region 30) but does not press against and move the second member 122, and the first member 121 and the second member 122 do not move relative to each other. Therefore, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within the predetermined range, the +X-side friction damper 111 and the -X-side friction damper 112 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 do not operate, and therefore no damping force is generated.

[0044] In the state shown in FIG. 3 , the pin member 42 has moved to the +X side within the first non-damping region 21 (and the overlapping second region 30) and is located at the +X-side end of the second region 30. As described above, in the first region 20, the first damping region 22 is connected to the first non-damping region 21 so as to be continuously slidable toward the +X side. When the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion exceeds a predetermined range (when the pin member 42 moves further toward the +X side), the pin member 42 slides in the first damping region 22 by a distance d while remaining in contact with the end of the second region 30. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4 , the second member 122 pressed by the pin member 42 moves toward the +X side relative to the first member 121. Then, the +X-side friction damper 111 and the −X-side friction damper 112 of the damping force generating mechanism 11 are activated, generating a damping force.

[0045] In the above description, the operation when the second member 122 moves in the +X direction with respect to the first object 1 on the +X side from the reference position has been described. Next, the operation when the second member 122 moves in the -X direction with respect to the first object 1 on the +X side of the reference position (returns from the state shown in FIG. 4 to the state shown in FIG. 2A) will be described below. First, when returning from the state shown in FIG. 4 to the state shown in FIG., the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion exceeds a predetermined range, and the pin member 42 slides the first damping region 22 by d while remaining in contact with the end of the second region 30. As a result, the second member 122 pressed by the pin member 42 moves relatively in the -X direction with respect to the first member 121. Then, the +X side friction damper 111 and the -X side friction damper 112 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 are actuated to generate a damping force. When returning to the state shown in FIG., the positions of the first member 121 and the second member 122 are restored so that the first non-damping region 21 and the second region 30 overlap.

[0046] Next, when returning from the state shown in FIG. 3 to the state shown in FIG. 2A, the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, and the pin member 42 only reciprocates and slides within the first non-damping region 21 (and the overlapping second region 30), and the first member 121 and the second member 122 do not move relatively. Therefore, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, the +X side friction damper 111 and the -X side friction damper 112 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 do not operate, so no damping force is generated.

[0047] Note that the operation on the -X side of the reference position is the same as the above description. The control mechanism 12 operates so as not to operate the damping force generation mechanism 11 when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range (-L≦X≦+L), and operates so as to operate the damping force generation mechanism 11 when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object in the relative reciprocating motion exceeds a predetermined range (X<-L, +L<X).

[0048] <<Restoring force characteristics>> FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the restoring force characteristics of the structure 100 by the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, in the damping mechanism 10 of the present embodiment, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range (-L≦X≦+L), the frictional forces (damping forces) by the +X side friction damper 111 and the -X side friction damper 112 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 do not occur. On the other hand, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion exceeds the predetermined range (X<-L, +L<X), the frictional forces (damping forces) by the +X side friction damper 111 and the -X side friction damper 112 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 act. <00002××><00002××><00002××>Thereby, in the damping mechanism 10 of the present embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs and to ensure the habitability of the structure when a medium or small earthquake occurs.

[0051] <<First Modified Example>> FIG. 6 is a front view of the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example at the reference position. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing the state when the second object 3 is displaced by L in the +X direction with respect to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing the state when the second object 3 is displaced by L + d in the +X direction with respect to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 6, in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example, the second member 122A may be divided into multiple pieces. Specifically, the control mechanism 12A in the first modified example has a second member 122A located on the +X side and a second member 122A located on the -X side. In the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example, similar to the damping mechanism 10 of the above-described embodiment, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the pin member 42 simply slides back and forth within the first non-damping region 21 (and the overlapping second region 30) but does not press against and move the second member 122A, and there is no relative movement between the first member 121 and the second member 122A.

[0053] However, in damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example, unlike damping mechanism 10 of the above-described embodiment, when the relative displacement between first object 1 and second object 3 during the relative reciprocating motion exceeds a predetermined range (when pin member 42 moves further toward the +X side), pin member 42 presses and moves either +X-side second member 122A or -X-side second member 122A while remaining in contact with the end of second region 30. Here, as shown in FIG. 8 , only +X-side second member 122A pressed by pin member 42 moves toward the +X side relative to first member 121. The -X-side second member 122A does not move relative to first member 121. Then, only +X-side friction damper 111 of damping force generation mechanism 11 is activated to generate a damping force. -X-side friction damper 112 does not operate.

[0054] In the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example, friction dampers having different friction forces can be used for the +X-side friction damper 111A and the -X-side friction damper 112A. For example, in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modified example, the friction force of the +X-side friction damper 111A is greater than the friction force of the -X-side friction damper 112A. Note that it is not necessary to pair the +X-side friction damper 111A and the -X-side friction damper 112A as shown in FIG. 6, and a friction damper may be installed on only one of the +X direction and the -X side.

[0055] FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the restoring force characteristics of the structure 100 by the damping mechanism 10A of the first modification.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 9, also in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modification, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range (-L≦X≦+L), the frictional force (damping force) by the +X side friction damper 111 or the -X side friction damper 112 of the damping force generating mechanism 11 does not occur. On the other hand, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion exceeds the predetermined range (X<-L, +L<X), the frictional force (damping force) by the +X side friction damper 111 or the -X side friction damper 112 of the damping force generating mechanism 11 acts. Thereby, also in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modification, it is possible to suppress the excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs and to ensure the habitability of the structure when a medium or small earthquake occurs.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 9, in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modification, the frictional force on the +X side is larger than the frictional force on the -X side. Thereby, by installing the damping mechanism 10A at the end of the structure 100, it is possible to reduce the fall of the first object 1 of the structure 100 and the pulling out of the seismic isolation device 5 (see FIG. 1 described above).

[0058] <<Second Modification>> FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the damping mechanism 10B of the second modification.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 10 , in a damping mechanism 10B of the second modification, the first member 121B and the second member 122B of a control mechanism 12B are each a surface material, similar to the control mechanism 12 of the present embodiment described above. However, in the control mechanism 12B of the second modification, the first member 121B and the second member 122B are each parallel to each other and arranged parallel to each other in the XY plane (horizontal plane). In this case, the relative reciprocating motion is parallel to the in-plane direction of the first member 121B and the second member 122B. In the damping mechanism 10B of the second modification, the direction in which the connection mechanism 50 guides the movement of the first member 121B is the Y direction, which is one of the in-plane directions and is perpendicular to the X direction (i.e., the direction of the reciprocating motion). Note that in the example of FIG. 10 , the left connection mechanism 50L is a pin mechanism, and the right connection mechanism 50R is a roller mechanism. The first member 121B moves in an arc in the Y direction by the connection mechanism 50R, with the connection mechanism 50L as an axis. Although not illustrated, if the right connection mechanism 50R is a roller mechanism and the left connection mechanism 50L is also a roller mechanism, the first member 121B will perform linear motion in the Y direction.

[0060] The pin member 42B is rigidly connected to the second object 3 so that its longitudinal direction is perpendicular to the in-plane direction of the first member 121B and the second member 122. In other words, the pin member 42B is provided integrally with a support portion connected to the second object 3 so as to perform relative reciprocating motion together with the second object 3. However, the pin member 42B may be connected to the second object 3 so as to be movable in the Y direction, and the first member 121B may be rigidly connected to the first object 1 rather than being connected by the connection mechanism 50.

[0061] As a result, the damping mechanism 10B of the second modified example can also suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and can ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium earthquake occurs.

[0062] <<Third Modification>> Fig. 11A is a view of a damping mechanism 10C of a third modified example as viewed from the axial direction, and Fig. 11B is a perspective view of the damping mechanism 10C of the third modified example.

[0063] 11A and 11B, the damping mechanism 10C of the third modified example is a cylindrical damping mechanism. The damping mechanism 10C is composed of a cylindrical portion 114 and a rod portion 115. A first relative displacement surface 121C that undergoes relative reciprocating motion together with a first object 1 (not shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B) is formed on the cylindrical portion 114. In other words, the first member in the third modified example has the first relative displacement surface 121C formed on the cylindrical portion 114. The first non-damping region 21 and the first damping region 22 formed on the first relative displacement surface 121C are arranged in a circumferentially offset relationship with the cylindrical portion 114 and communicate with each other.

[0064] Furthermore, the rod portion 115 is connected to a second object 3 (not shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B) so as to reciprocate relative to the second object 3. The rod portion 115 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 114 and is slidable in the direction of the relative reciprocating motion described above (here, the axial direction of the rod portion 115).

[0065] In the damping mechanism 10C of the third modified example, a second relative displacement surface 122C is formed on the outer circumferential side of the cylindrical portion 114. The second relative displacement surface 122C is a member that is movable in the axial direction relative to the first relative displacement surface 121C. In other words, the second member in the third modified example has the second relative displacement surface 122C that moves in the axial direction relative to the first relative displacement surface 121C.

[0066] Pin member 42C is fixed to rod portion 115. Pin member 42C is provided so as to be movable in the circumferential direction of cylindrical portion 114 when the first member (first relative displacement surface 121C) and the second member (second relative displacement surface 122C) move relative to each other in the axial direction (i.e., the direction of the relative reciprocating motion).

[0067] In the damping mechanism 10C of the third modified example, when the relative displacement between the cylindrical portion 114 (connected to the first object 1) and the rod portion 115 (connected to the second object 3) exceeds a predetermined range, the rod portion 115 moves relative to the cylindrical portion 114, and further, the second relative displacement surface 122C moves relative to the first relative displacement surface 121C, thereby generating a frictional force. Note that FIGS. 11A and 11B are merely examples, and the configuration is not limited to that shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B as long as the first relative displacement surface 121C and the second relative displacement surface 122C are relatively movable only in the axial direction and the first relative displacement surface 121C and the rod portion 115 are capable of relative rotational movement. For example, the member to which the pin member 42C is fixed (here, the rod portion 115) may be located outside the cylindrical portion 114, or the first relative displacement surface 121C may be located outside the second relative displacement surface 122C. Furthermore, a plurality of second relative displacement surfaces 122C and a plurality of pin members 42C may be arranged with respect to the first relative displacement surface 121C, thereby making it possible to increase the damping force.

[0068] As a result, the damping mechanism 10C of the third modified example can also suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and can ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium earthquake occurs.

[0069] ==Second Embodiment== Fig. 12 is a front view of the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment at the reference position. Fig. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing the state when the second object 3 is displaced by L toward the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment. Fig. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing the state when the second object 3 is displaced by L+d toward the +X side relative to the first object 1 in the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment.

[0070] 12, a damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment employs an oil damper 113 instead of a friction damper as the damping force generating mechanism 11. The control mechanism 12 is the same as that of the first embodiment. The control mechanism 12 makes it possible to reduce the stroke of the oil damper 113.

[0071] The damping mechanism 10D of the above-described embodiment is not limited to the example in the damping mechanism 10 of the first embodiment, and an oil damper 113 may be employed in the damping mechanism 10A of the first modification, the damping mechanism 10B of the second modification, and the damping mechanism 10C of the third modification.

[0072] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the restoring force characteristics of the structure 100 by the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 15, also in the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range (-L ≦ X ≦ +L), the damping force by the oil damper 113 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 does not occur. On the other hand, when the relative displacement between the first object 1 and the second object 3 in the relative reciprocating motion exceeds the predetermined range (X < -L, +L < X), the damping force by the oil damper 113 of the damping force generation mechanism 11 acts.

[0074] Thereby, also in the damping mechanism 10D of the second embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs and to ensure the habitability of the structure when a medium or small earthquake occurs.

[0075] ==Summary== According to this specification, a damping mechanism of the following aspects is provided.

[0076] (Aspect 1) Aspect 1 is a damping mechanism that damps the relative reciprocating motion between a first object and a second object, and does not generate a damping force when the relative displacement between the first object and the second object in the reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, and generates a damping force when the relative displacement exceeds the predetermined range.

[0077] According to the above aspect, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs and to ensure the habitability of the structure when a medium or small earthquake occurs.

[0078] (Aspect 2) In a second aspect, the vehicle includes a damping force generating mechanism that generates the damping force and a control mechanism that controls the damping force.

[0079] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0080] (Aspect 3) In aspect 3, the control mechanism operates not to activate the damping force generating mechanism when the relative displacement is within the predetermined range, and operates to activate the damping force generating mechanism when the relative displacement exceeds the predetermined range.

[0081] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0082] (Aspect 4) In aspect 4, the control mechanism includes a first member connected to perform the reciprocating motion together with the first object, and a second member capable of moving relative to the first member in the direction of the reciprocating motion, and the damping force generating mechanism generates the damping force in accordance with the relative movement between the first member and the second member.

[0083] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0084] (Aspect 5) In aspect 5, the first member has a first non-damping region formed in a non-damping range in the direction of the reciprocating motion where the damping force is not generated, and a first damping region formed in a damping range in the direction of the reciprocating motion that is beyond the non-damping range and where the damping force is generated.

[0085] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0086] (Aspect 6) In aspect 6, the control mechanism includes a support portion connected to perform the reciprocating motion together with the second object, and a pin member supported by the support portion and located in the first non-damping region or the first damping region, and the pin member is guided through the first non-damping region or the first damping region as the relative movement occurs.

[0087] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0088] (Aspect 7) In a seventh aspect, in the non-attenuation range, the first member and the second member do not move relative to each other.

[0089] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0090] (Aspect 8) In aspect 8, the second member has a second region that overlaps with the first non-damping region when the relative displacement is within the specified range, and the pin member is located in the first non-damping region and the second region when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the pin member.

[0091] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0092] (Aspect 9) In a ninth aspect, the first non-damping region and the first damping region are arranged to be in communication with each other but shifted in an in-plane direction of the first member, and the pin member is provided so as to be movable in the in-plane direction.

[0093] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0094] (Aspect 10) In aspect 10, the first member is provided with a connection mechanism that restricts movement of the first member relative to the first object in the direction of the reciprocating motion and guides movement of the first member relative to the first object in a specific perpendicular direction perpendicular to the direction of the reciprocating motion.

[0095] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0096] (Aspect 11) In aspect 11, the in-plane direction of the first member is a direction perpendicular to the direction of the reciprocating motion and the direction of separation between the first member and the second member, and the pin member is formed integrally with the support portion.

[0097] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0098] (Aspect 12) In a twelfth aspect, the specific orthogonal direction orthogonal to the direction of the reciprocating motion is a direction orthogonal to the direction of the reciprocating motion.

[0099] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0100] (Aspect 13) In aspect 13, the first member has a first relative displacement surface formed on a cylindrical portion, the second member has a second relative displacement surface that moves relative to the first relative displacement surface, the first non-damping region and the first damping region formed on the first relative displacement surface are arranged in a circumferentially offset and connected manner on the cylindrical portion, and when the first member and the second member move relative to each other in the direction of the reciprocating motion, the pin member is arranged to be movable in the circumferential direction.

[0101] According to the above-described embodiment, it is possible to suppress excessive deformation of the structure when a large earthquake occurs, and also to ensure the habitability of the structure when a small to medium-sized earthquake occurs.

[0102] ==Other== The above-described embodiments are intended to facilitate understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, the present invention may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit thereof, and the present invention includes equivalents thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0103] 1 1st object 3 Second object 5 Seismic isolation device 10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D Damping mechanism 11, 11A, 11C Damping force generation mechanism 12, 12A, 12B, 12C Control mechanism 20 1st area 21 First non-attenuating region 22 First attenuation region 30,30A 2nd area 41 Support part 42, 42B, 42C Pin members 50 Connection mechanism 100 structures 111,111A +X side friction damper 112,112A -X side friction damper 113 Oil damper 114 Cylindrical part 115 Rod part 121, 121B First member 121C First relative displacement surface 122, 122A, 122B Second member 122C Second relative displacement surface 123,123B Pin mechanism

Claims

1. A damping mechanism that damps relative reciprocating motion between a first object and a second object, When the relative displacement between the first object and the second object during the reciprocating motion is within a predetermined range, no damping force is generated, a damping mechanism that generates a damping force when the relative displacement exceeds the predetermined range.

2. A damping force generating mechanism that generates the damping force and a control mechanism that controls the damping force are provided. The damping mechanism of claim 1 .

3. The control mechanism When the relative displacement is within the predetermined range, the damping force generating mechanism is not activated, When the relative displacement exceeds the predetermined range, the damping force generating mechanism is activated. The damping mechanism of claim 2 .

4. The control mechanism a first member connected for said reciprocating motion with said first object; a second member that is movable relative to the first member in the direction of the reciprocating motion; and the damping force generating mechanism generates the damping force in association with the relative movement between the first member and the second member. The damping mechanism of claim 2 .

5. The first member is a first non-damping region formed in a non-damping range in which the damping force is not generated in the direction of the reciprocating motion; a first damping region formed in a damping range in which the damping force is generated, the first damping region being a range beyond the non-damping range in the direction of the reciprocating motion; having The damping mechanism of claim 4.

6. The control mechanism a support portion connected to the second object so as to reciprocate together with the second object; and a pin member supported by the support portion and located in the first non-damping region or the first damping region, The pin member is guided through the first non-damping region or the first damping region in accordance with the relative movement. The damping mechanism of claim 5.

7. In the non-attenuation range, the first member and the second member do not move relative to each other. The damping mechanism of claim 5.

8. the second member has a second region that overlaps the first non-damping region when the relative displacement is within the predetermined range; The pin member is located in the first non-damping region and the second region when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the pin member. The damping mechanism of claim 6.

9. the first non-damping region and the first damping region are arranged in communication with each other and shifted in an in-plane direction of the first member, The pin member is provided so as to be movable in the in-plane direction. The damping mechanism of claim 6.

10. a connection mechanism provided on the first member, which restricts movement of the first member relative to the first object in the direction of the reciprocating motion and guides movement of the first member relative to the first object in a specific orthogonal direction orthogonal to the direction of the reciprocating motion; The damping mechanism of claim 4.

11. an in-plane direction of the first member is a direction perpendicular to a direction of the reciprocating motion and a direction in which the first member and the second member are spaced apart, and the pin member is provided integrally with the support portion. The damping mechanism of claim 9.

12. The specific orthogonal direction orthogonal to the direction of the reciprocating motion is a direction orthogonal to the direction of the reciprocating motion among the in-plane directions. A damping mechanism according to claim 10 or 11.

13. the first member has a first relative displacement surface formed on a cylindrical portion, the second member has a second relative displacement surface that moves relative to the first relative displacement surface, and the first non-damping region and the first damping region formed on the first relative displacement surface are arranged in a circumferentially offset manner and communicated with each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion, When the first member and the second member move relatively in the direction of the reciprocating motion, the pin member is provided to be movable in the circumferential direction. The damping mechanism of claim 6.

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