Seismic Isolators and Damping Devices

Abstract

To provide a seismic isolator that can more efficiently permit smooth horizontal movement of a building in any compass direction during an earthquake.SOLUTION: A sliding seismic isolator includes a first plate attached to a building support, and at least one elongate element extending from the first plate. The seismic isolator also includes a second plate. The first and second plates are capable of moving relative to each other along a horizontal plane. The seismic isolator also includes a lower support member attached to the second plate, with a biasing arrangement positioned within the lower support member. The elongate element(s) extend from the first plate at least partially into the lower support member, and movement of the elongate element(s) is influenced or controlled by the biasing arrangement. The seismic isolator also includes a damping structure with closed ends spaced apart from the first plate and the base of the seismic isolator.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 31

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS Any and all applications identified in the priority claim in the Application Data Sheet, or any amendment thereto, are hereby incorporated by reference herein and make part of this disclosure.

[0002] This application relates generally to seismic isolators, and more particularly, to seismic isolators for use in conjunction with buildings to prevent damage to the buildings during an earthquake. [Background technology]

[0003] Seismic isolators are commonly used in areas of the world where earthquakes are likely to occur. A seismic isolator typically includes a structure or multiple structures located beneath a building, beneath the assembly supports, and / or in or around the foundation of a building.

[0004] Seismic isolators are designed to minimize the amount of loads and forces applied directly to a building during an earthquake, preventing damage to the building. Many seismic isolators incorporate a dual plate design, where a first plate is attached to the bottom of the assembly support and a second plate is attached to the building foundation. There is a layer of rubber between the plates, allowing, for example, side-to-side rocking motion of the plates relative to each other. Other types of seismic isolators incorporate, for example, a roller or rollers built under the building that facilitate movement of the building during an earthquake. The rollers are arranged like a pendulum, so that as the building moves over the rollers, the building initially deflects vertically until it finally leans into place. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] At least one aspect of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the recognition that current seismic isolation isolators are unable to provide smooth horizontal movement of a building relative to the ground during an earthquake. As explained above, current isolators allow some horizontal movement, but movement occurs simultaneously due to substantial vertical shift or vibration of the building and / or rocking effects that cause the building to tilt from side to side as the building moves horizontally. Such movement may cause unnecessary damage or stress to the building. In addition, the rubber of current isolators may lose its strain capacity over time. It would be advantageous to have a simplified seismic isolation isolator that could more efficiently allow smooth horizontal movement of a building in either compass direction during an earthquake and avoid at least one or more of the problems of current isolators described above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Thus, according to at least one embodiment disclosed herein, the sliding isolation isolator may include a first plate configured to be attached to an assembly support, with the elongated element (or elements) extending from a center (center or other suitable location) of the first plate. The sliding isolation isolator may further include a second plate and a low friction layer positioned between the first plate and the second plate configured to allow the first plate and the second plate to move freely relative to each other along a horizontal plane. The sliding isolation isolator may further include a lower support member attached to the second plate, with at least one spring member or perforated elastomeric element positioned within the lower support member, with the elongated element or elements extending at least partially from the first plate to the lower support member. The sliding isolation isolator may reduce earthquake forces at the earth's surface before they can affect an associated structure.

[0007] In accordance with at least one embodiment disclosed herein, the sliding isolation isolator may include a first plate configured to be attached to the assembly support, with at least one elongated element extending from the first plate. The sliding isolation isolator may further include a second plate and a low friction layer positioned between the first plate and the second plate and configured to allow the first plate and the second plate to move relative to one another along a horizontal plane. The sliding isolation isolator may further include a lower support member attached to the second plate, with the biasing element positioned within the lower support member. The sliding isolation isolator may further include a first closed end separate from the first plate and a second closed end separate from a base of the isolation isolator, and include at least one damping structure, with the damping structure including a deformable material and configured to expand vertically when compressed.

[0008] In accordance with at least one embodiment disclosed herein, the system may include a plurality of isolators configured to be attached to an assembly support, at least one isolator configured to provide a smaller recentering force than another isolator.

[0009] In accordance with at least one embodiment disclosed herein, a method of supporting a structure for seismic isolation and recentring may include supporting the structure with one or more of a first type of isolation isolators and supporting the structure with one or more of a second type of isolation isolators having a lesser recentring force than the first type of isolation isolators. The first type of isolation isolators may be configured to provide a greater shock absorbing force than the second type of isolation isolators. The method may further include recentering one or more of the first type of isolation isolators using one or more of the second type of isolation isolators.

[0010] These and other features and advantages of the present embodiments will become more apparent when reading the following Detailed Description of the Invention and with reference to the accompanying figures of the embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Diagram 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a front view of a portion of the assembled support and seismic isolator of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top view of the assembly support and part shown in FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the seismic isolator of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top view of the portion shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the seismic isolator of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a top view of the portion shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the seismic isolator of FIG. 1. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a top view of the portion shown in FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the seismic isolator of FIG. 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a top view of the portion shown in FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an improved embodiment of the seismic isolator of FIGS. [Figure 14] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Figure 15] 15 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 15 is a front view of a portion of the assembled support and seismic isolator of FIG. [Figure 17]FIG. 17 is a top view of the assembly support and part shown in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Figure 19] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 18 taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 19 is a front view of a portion of the assembled support and seismic isolator of FIG. 18. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a top view of the assembly support and part shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Diagram 23] 23 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 20 taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 22. [Figure 24] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Diagram 25] 25 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 22 taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 24. [Figure 26] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Figure 27] 27 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26. [Figure 28] FIG. 27 is a front view of a portion of the assembled support and seismic isolator of FIG. 26. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a top view of the assembly support and part shown in FIG. 28. [Diagram 30] FIG. 27 is a detailed view of the damping structure of the seismic isolator of FIG. 26. [Diagram 31] 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of a sliding seismic isolator mounted on an assembly support. [Diagram 32] 32 is a cross-sectional view of the seismic isolator of FIG. 31 taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 31. [Diagram 33] FIG. 32 is a front view of a portion of the assembled support and seismic isolator of FIG. 31. [Diagram 34] FIG. 34 is a top view of the assembly support and part shown in FIG. 33. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] For convenience, the embodiments disclosed herein are described with respect to sliding seismic isolation devices for use with commercial or residential buildings or bridges, however, embodiments may also be used with other types of buildings or structures where it may be desirable to minimize, contain and / or prevent damage to the structure during an earthquake.

[0013] Various features associated with different embodiments are described below. All features of each embodiment can be combined, individually or together, with features of other embodiments, which combinations form part of the present disclosure. Moreover, none of the features are critical or essential to any of the embodiments.

[0014] With reference to FIG. 1, the isolation isolator 10 may comprise a device configured to prevent damage to a building during an earthquake. The isolation isolator 10 may include two or more components configured to move relative to one another during an earthquake. For example, the isolation isolator 10 may include two or more components configured to slide approximately or substantially relative to one another along a geometric plane during an earthquake. The isolation isolator 10 may include at least one component attached to an assembly support and at least another component attached in or above the foundation and / or ground of the building. In some embodiments, the isolation isolator 10 is accessible. In some embodiments, one or more cameras can be used to monitor the isolation isolator 10. For example, the cameras can be used to inspect the isolation isolator 10 and / or a portion of the building and / or foundation near the isolation isolator (e.g., for post-earthquake inspection).

[0015] 1, 3, and 4, for example, the seismic isolator 10 can include a first plate 12. The first plate 12 can include a circular or annular shaped plate, although other shapes (e.g., rectangular) are possible. The first plate 12 can be formed of a metal (e.g., stainless steel), although other materials or combinations of materials are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the first plate 12 can be primarily metal, but with at least one layer of a plastic or polymeric material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), sold under the trademark Teflon, or other similar materials. The first plate 12 can also have a constant thickness. The first plate 12 can also have a constant thickness. In some embodiments, the thickness can be approximately constant throughout the first plate 12, although variable thicknesses can also be used. In some embodiments, the first plate 12 can have a thickness "t1" of approximately ½ inch, although other values ​​are possible. The thickness "t1" can vary based on the expected loads.

[0016] As seen in Figures 3 and 4, the first plate 12 can be attached to the bottom surface of the assembly support 14 or can be formed integrally therewith. The assembly support 14 can include, for example, a cross-shaped support having a first support component 16 and a second support component 18, although other types of assembly supports 14 can be utilized in conjunction with the first plate 12. The assembly support 14 can be made of wood, steel, concrete, or other materials. The first plate 12 can be attached to the assembly support 14, for example, by welding the first plate 12 to the bottom surface of the assembly support 14 or by using fasteners such as bolts, rivets, or screws or other known methods. The first plate 12 can be rigidly attached to the assembly support 14 such that there is substantially no relative movement between the first plate 12 and the assembly support 14.

[0017] With continued reference to FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, at least one elongated element 20 can extend from the first plate 12. The elongated element 20 can be integrally formed with the first plate 12 or can be separately attached. For example, the elongated element 20 can be bolted or welded to the first plate 12. The elongated element 20 can comprise a cylindrical metal rod, although other shapes are possible. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can have a circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can be a solid steel (or other suitable metal) bar. The elongated element 20 can extend from a geometric center of the first plate 12. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can extend generally perpendicular to a surface of the first plate 12. In some embodiments, a plurality of elongated elements 20 can extend from the first plate 12. For example, in some embodiments, four elongated elements 20 can generally extend from a geometric center of the first plate 12. In some embodiments, the plurality of elongated elements 20 can flex and / or bend during an earthquake to absorb some of the energy from the seismic forces. The elongated elements 20 can also optionally include a cap 22. The cap 22 can be integrally formed with the remainder of the elongated elements 20. The cap 22 can be made of the same material as the remainder of the elongated elements 20, although other materials are possible. The cap 22 can form the bottom portion of the elongated elements 20.

[0018] 1, 2, 5, and 6, the isolation isolator 10 may include a second plate 24. The second plate 24 may include a circular or annular shaped plate, although other shapes (e.g., rectangular) are possible. The second plate 24 may be formed from a metal (e.g., stainless steel), although other materials or combinations of materials are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the second plate 24 may consist primarily of a metal with an adhesive layer of PTFE (or other similar material). The second plate 24 may also have a constant thickness. In some embodiments, the thickness may be approximately constant throughout the second plate 24, although variable thicknesses may also be used. In some embodiments, the second plate 24 may have a thickness "t2" of approximately ½ inch, although other values ​​are possible. The thickness "t2" may vary based on the expected loads.

[0019] 5 and 6, the second plate 24 may include an opening 26. The elongated element 26 may be formed at a geometric center of the second plate 24. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the opening 26 may be configured to receive the elongated element 20. The opening 26 may be configured to accommodate movement of the elongated element 20 and first plate 12 relative to the second plate 24.

[0020] 1, 7, and 8, the isolation isolator 10 may include a low friction layer 28. The low friction layer 28 may include, for example, PTFE or other similar material. The low friction layer 28 may be in the form of a thin, annular shaped layer having an opening 30 at its geometric center. Other shapes and configurations for the low friction layer 28 are possible. In addition, while one low friction layer 28 is shown, in some embodiments, multiple low friction layers 28 may be used. In an alternative arrangement, the low friction layer 28 may include a movement support layer, which may include a movement support element (e.g., a bearing).

[0021] With continued reference to Figures 1, 7 and 8, the low friction layer 28 may have an outer shape that is approximately the same as the outer shape of the second plate 24. For example, the low friction layer 28 may have an outer diameter that is the same as the outer diameter of the second plate 24, and an opening that is the same as the diameter size of the geometric center of the second plate 24 as well. In some embodiments, the low friction layer 28 may be formed on and / or attached to the first plate 12 or the second plate 24. For example, the low friction layer 28 may be bonded to the first plate 12 or the second plate 24. The low friction layer 28 may be, for example, a layer that provides a variable friction resistance between the first plate 12 and the second plate 24 (as opposed to the normal 100% friction resistance that occurs between the two plates). Preferably, the low friction layer 28 provides a reduction in friction resistance, at least as compared to the materials used for the first plate 12 and the second plate 24. 1, in some embodiments, the first plate 12, the low friction layer 28, and the second plate 24 can form a sandwich configuration. Both the first plate 12 and the second plate 24 can be in contact with the low friction layer 28, which allows relative movement of the first plate 12 with respect to the second plate 24. Thus, the first plate 12 and the second plate 24 can be independent components of the seismic isolator 10 that are free to move relative to each other along a generally horizontal plane. In some embodiments, the first plate 12 and the second plate 24 can support at least a portion of the weight of a building.

[0022] 1, 9, and 10, the seismic isolator 10 may additionally include a lower support element 32. The lower support element 32 may be configured to stabilize and hold the second plate 24 in place, thereby allowing only the first plate 12 to move relative to the second plate 24. In some embodiments, the elongated element 32 may be attached directly to the second plate 24 or may be integrally formed with the second plate 24. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the lower support element 32 may include an open cylindrical shell, although other shapes and configurations are possible. The lower support element 32 may be embedded in the foundation or otherwise attached to the foundation of the building, such that the lower support element generally moves with the foundation during an earthquake. In some embodiments, the lower support element 32 may include a base plate 32a. In some embodiments, the base plate 32a may be a separate component from the lower support element 32. The base plate 32a can be attached to the lower support element 32 and / or to the foundation of a building.

[0023] 1, 2, 11, 12, and 13, the lower support element 32 may be configured to house at least one component that helps guide the elongated element 20 to return or return to its original rest position after an earthquake event. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1, 11, and 12, the seismic isolator 10 may include at least one biasing element 36, such as a spring component or an industrial perforated rubber component. The biasing element 36 may be an elastomeric material or other spring component. The biasing element 36 may be a single component or multiple components (e.g., a stack of components as shown). Preferably, the biasing element 36 includes voids or perforations 37 that can be filled with a material, such as a liquid or solid material (e.g., silicone). The biasing element 36 may include a flat metal spring or an industrial perforated rubber. The biasing element 36 may be housed inside the lower support element 32. The number and configuration of biasing element(s) 36 used may depend on the size of the building. Figure 13 shows the biasing elements 36 in schematic form, which may be or include rubber components, spring components, other biasing elements, or any combination thereof.

[0024] With continued reference to Figures 1, 2, 11 and 12, the seismic isolator 10 may include an engineered elastomeric material. The biasing element 36 may include synthetic rubber, although other types of materials are possible. A protective agent, such as a liquid (e.g., oil), may be used to preserve the properties of the biasing element 36. The biasing element 36 may be used to fill remaining gaps or openings within the lower support element 32. The biasing element 36 may be used to help guide the elongated element 20 and to cause or return the elongated element 20 to its original rest position after an earthquake event.

[0025] The elongate element 20 may be vulcanized and / or bonded to the biasing element 36. This may provide additional resistance to relative vertical movement between the elongate element 20 and the biasing element 36, for example, when wind or seismic forces are present. The elongate element 20 may be bonded to the biasing element 36 along any suitable portion of the elongate element 20. For example, the elongate element 20 may be bonded to the biasing element 36 along some or the entire overlap length of the biasing element 36 and the side ends of the elongate element 20.

[0026] The isolation isolator 10 may additionally include at least one retaining element 38 (FIG. 13). The retaining element 38 may be configured to retain and / or hold the elongated element 20. The retaining element 38 may include, for example, a hardened elastomeric material and / or an adhesive, such as glue. Different possible retaining elements may be used as desired. Various numbers of retaining elements are possible. During assembly of the isolation isolator 10, the elongated element 20 may be inserted, for example, down through the retaining element.

[0027] Overall, the arrangement of the seismic isolator 10 can provide a support framework to allow the elongated element 20 to shift horizontally during an earthquake in either direction in the horizontal plane allowed by the openings 26. This can be due, at least in part, to a space "a" (see FIG. 1) that can exist between the bottom surface of the elongated element 20 (e.g., at the cap 22) and the bottom surface of the lower support element 32. This space "a" can allow the elongated element 20 to remain separated from the lower support element 32, which in turn allows the elongated element 20 to move within the openings 26 of the second plate 24 during an earthquake. Space "a", and more specifically, the fact that the elongated element 20 is separated from the lower support element 32, also allows the first plate 12 and the assembly support 14 attached to or integrally formed with the elongated element 20 to slide horizontally during an earthquake. The size of space "a" can vary.

[0028] The arrangement of the seismic isolators 10 can also provide a framework for returning or carrying the support assembly 14 to its original rest position. For example, one or more biasing elements, such as a shock absorber in conjunction with a series of retaining elements 38 and / or biasing elements 36 within the lower support element 32, can move together to facilitate returning the elongated element 20 to a central rest position within the lower support element 32, thus carrying the first plate 12 and support assembly 14 back to the desired rest position.

[0029] During an earthquake, the seismic forces of the ground can be transferred through the biasing element 36 to the elongated element 20 and ultimately to the building or structure itself. The elongated element 20 and the biasing element 36 can facilitate attenuation of the seismic forces. The lateral stiffness of the sliding isolator 10 can be controlled by the biasing element 36, the frictional forces, and / or the elongated element 20. In the case of wind forces and small earthquakes, the frictional forces (e.g., between the plates 12 and 24) alone can sometimes be sufficient to control or limit the movement of the building and / or prevent the movement of the building altogether. The retardation and attenuation of the movement of the structure can be controlled by the biasing element 36 with the silicone filled perforations 37 or spring components and the openings 26. In some embodiments, the seismic rotational forces (e.g., the twisting, bending of the ground caused by some earthquakes) can be easily controlled by the nature of the design of the isolator 10 described above. For example, in most cases where the isolator 10 is unable to absorb and attenuate all of the seismic forces, the openings 26, elongated elements 20, and / or biasing elements 36 may inhibit or prevent damage to the building.

[0030] In some embodiments, cap 22 can block or prevent upward vertical movement of first plate 12 during a seismic event. For example, cap 22 can have a diameter larger than the diameter of retaining element 38, and cap 22 can be positioned below retaining element 38 (see FIG. 1 ), such that cap 22 blocks elongated element 20 from rising vertically.

[0031] Although one isolation isolator 19 is described and shown in Figures 1-12, in some embodiments, a building or other structure can incorporate a system of isolation isolators 10. For example, isolation isolators 10 can be located and installed at specific locations beneath a building or other structure.

[0032] In some embodiments, the isolation isolator 10 can be installed prior to construction of a building. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the isolation isolator can be installed as a retrofit isolator 10 already on an existing building. For example, the support elements 32 can be attached to the top of an existing foundation.

[0033] FIG. 13 shows an improved form of seismic isolator 10 in which the structure of the first plate 12 and the second plate 24 are essentially reversed. In other words, the diameter of the first plate 12 is larger than the second plate 24. The configuration of FIG. 13 is not limiting and may be quite suitable for certain applications, such as bridges. A large and long top plate or the first plate 12 may be utilized to accommodate other types of structures, including bridges. In such an arrangement, the second plate 24 supports the first plate 12 at multiple locations of the first plate 12 relative to the second plate 24. The low friction layer 28 may be located or attached to the bottom surface of the first plate 12 or the top surface of the second plate 24, or may be located or attached to both plates. In other respects, the isolator 10 of FIG. 13 may be the same as or similar to the isolator 10 of FIGS. 1-12 (however, as explained above, the biasing element 36 may be in any suitable arrangement). In some embodiments, for example, biasing element 36 may include layers of radially oriented compression springs.

[0034] Figures 14-17 describe and show an alternative design of an isolation isolator 10. The embodiment of Figures 14-17 is described in relation to an isolation isolator 10 similar to that previously described in Figures 1-13, but with multiple elongated elements 20. Features not specifically described may be configured in the same or similar manner as described with reference to the other embodiments.

[0035] 14, 16, and 17, a plurality of elongated elements 20 can extend from the first plate 12. For example, in some embodiments, between 2 and 40 elongated elements 20 can extend from generally the geometric center of the first plate 12. In some configurations, the elongated elements 20 are contained within a cross-sectional area approximately equal to the cross-sectional area of ​​a single elongated element 20 of the previous embodiment. The elongated elements can vary in size depending on relevant criteria such as expected loads.

[0036] For example, in some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can be integrally formed with the first plate 12 or can be separately attached. For example, the elongated element 20 can be bolted or welded to the first plate 12. The elongated element 20 can comprise a cylindrical metal rod, although other shapes are possible. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can have a circular cross section. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can be a bar of solid steel (or other suitable metal). The elongated element 20 can extend from the geometric center of the first plate 12. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can extend approximately perpendicular to the surface of the first plate 12. In some embodiments, the elongated element 20 can flex and / or bend during an earthquake to absorb some of the energy from the seismic forces. The elongated element 20 can also optionally include a cap or caps, similar to the cap 22 of the previous embodiment.

[0037] 14 and 15 , the opening 26 in the second plate 24 may be configured to receive the elongated element 20. The opening 26 may be configured to accommodate movement of the elongated element 20 and first plate 12 relative to the second plate 24.

[0038] 14 and 15, the lower support element 32 may be configured to house at least one component that helps guide the elongated element 20 to return or return to its original rest position after an earthquake event. For example, the seismic isolator 10 may include at least one biasing element 36, such as a spring component or an industrial perforated rubber component. The biasing element 36 may be a single component or multiple components (e.g., a stack of components as shown). Preferably, the biasing element 36 includes voids or perforations 37 that can be filled with a material, such as a liquid or solid material (e.g., silicone). The biasing element 36 may include a flat metal spring or an industrial perforated rubber. The biasing element 36 may be housed inside the lower support element 32. The number and configuration of the biasing element(s) 36 used may depend on the size of the building.

[0039] 14 and 15, the seismic isolator 10 may include an engineered elastomeric material. The biasing element 36 may include a synthetic rubber, although other types of materials are possible. The biasing element 36 may be used to fill any remaining gaps or openings within the lower support element 32. The biasing element 36 may help guide the elongated element 20 and may be used to cause or return the elongated element 20 to its original rest position after an earthquake event.

[0040] The elongate element 20 may be vulcanized and / or bonded to the biasing element 36. This may provide additional resistance to relative vertical movement between the elongate element 20 and the biasing element 36, for example, when wind or seismic forces are present. The elongate element 20 may be bonded to the biasing element 36 along any suitable portion of the elongate element 20. For example, the elongate element 20 may be bonded to the biasing element 36 along some or the entire overlap length of the biasing element 36 and the side ends of the elongate element 20.

[0041] Overall, the arrangement of the seismic isolator 10 can provide a support framework to allow the elongated element 20 to shift horizontally during an earthquake in either direction in the horizontal plane allowed by the openings 26. This can be due, at least in part, to a space "a" (see FIG. 14) that can exist between the bottom surface of the elongated element 20 (or cap(s)) and the bottom surface of the lower support element 32. This space "a" can allow the elongated element 20 to remain separated from the lower support element 32, which in turn allows the elongated element 20 to move within the openings 26 of the second plate 24 during an earthquake. Space "a", and more specifically, the fact that the elongated element 20 is separated from the lower support element 32, also allows the first plate 12 and the assembly support 14 attached to or integrally formed with the elongated element 20 to slide horizontally during an earthquake. The size of space "a" can vary.

[0042] The arrangement of the seismic isolators 10 can also provide a framework for returning or carrying the support assembly 14 to its original rest position. For example, one or more biasing elements, such as a shock absorber in conjunction with a series of retaining elements 38 and / or biasing elements 36 within the lower support element 32, can move together to facilitate returning the elongated element 20 to a central rest position within the lower support element 32, thus carrying the first plate 12 and support assembly 14 back to the desired rest position.

[0043] During an earthquake, the seismic forces of the ground can be transferred through the biasing elements 36 to the elongated elements 20 and ultimately to the building or structure itself. The elongated elements 20 and the biasing elements 36 can facilitate attenuation of the seismic forces. The lateral stiffness of the sliding isolator 10 can be controlled by the spring components, frictional forces, and the elongated elements 20. In the case of wind forces and small earthquakes, frictional forces alone (e.g., between plates 12 and 24) can sometimes be sufficient to control or limit the movement of the building and / or prevent the movement of the building altogether. The retardation and attenuation of the movement of the structure can be controlled by the biasing elements 36 with the silicone filled perforations 37 or spring components, and the openings 26. In some embodiments, the seismic rotational forces (e.g., the twisting, bending of the ground caused by some earthquakes) can be easily controlled by the nature of the design of the isolator 10 described above. For example, in most cases where the seismic force cannot be absorbed and reduced by the isolator 10, the openings 26, elongated elements 20, and / or biasing elements 36 may inhibit or prevent damage to the building. Providing multiple elongated elements 20 with smaller diameters (or cross-sectional sizes) may allow for greater vibration damping compared to a single, larger elongated element 20. Multiple elongated elements 20 with smaller diameters (or cross-sectional sizes) may allow for more even distribution of forces than a single, larger elongated element 20.

[0044] In some embodiments, the cap(s), if present, can block or prevent upward vertical movement of the first plate 12 during a seismic event. For example, the cap(s) can have a diameter greater than or define an overall diameter of the biasing element 36, and the cap(s) can be positioned below the biasing element 36, such that the cap(s) block the elongated element 20 from rising vertically.

[0045] Figures 18-34 describe and show alternative designs of the isolation isolator 10. The embodiments of Figures 18-34 are similar to those previously described in Figures 1-17, but additionally or alternatively include certain features. For example, Figures 22-25 are described in conjunction with an isolation isolator 10 with a biasing element 36 disposed toward the base of the isolation isolator 10, and Figures 26-34 are described in conjunction with an isolation isolator 10 with a biasing element 40 to further facilitate attenuation of seismic forces. Features not specifically described may be configured in the same or similar manner as described with reference to other embodiments.

[0046] 22-25, in some embodiments, there may be a gap or space between the elongated element(s) 20 and the lower support element 32 and / or base plate 32a of the isolation isolator 10. For example, the isolation isolator 10 may not include a biasing element 36 disposed on the lateral side of the elongated element(s) 20 between the elongated element(s) 20 and the lateral side of the lower support element 32. In some embodiments, the isolation isolator 10 may include a biasing element 36 that is disposed and / or constrained towards the base of the isolation isolator 10. As shown in FIG. 22, the biasing element 36 has a thickness t b In the arrangement shown, engagement of the biasing element 36 with the elongated element(s) 20 is limited to not passing beyond the third bottom surface, not passing beyond the fifth bottom surface, or not passing beyond the eighth or tenth bottom surface of the elongated element(s) 20. The biasing element 36 can be a single component or multiple components (e.g., a stack of components). The biasing element 36 can include silicone, rubber, liquid, and / or any other suitable material. The biasing element 36 can be connected or secured (e.g., using glue, vulcanization, etc.) to the lateral sides and / or bottom of the lower support element 32 and / or to the base plate 32a. The elongated element(s) 20 can extend at least a portion of the biasing element 36. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, the length of the portion of the elongated element(s) 20 that extends into the biasing element 36 is equal to the thickness t of the biasing element 36. b24, this arrangement may require bending of the elongated element(s) 20 during an earthquake, which may facilitate additional resistance to or attenuation of seismic forces. In some embodiments, a recentering mechanism may be included in the seismic isolator 10.

[0047] 26-34, in some embodiments, the damping structures 40 can replace and / or complement the perforations 37 of the biasing element 36. In some embodiments, the isolation isolator 10 includes two or more damping structures 40. For example, the isolation isolator 10 can include between 2 and 50 damping structures 40. In some embodiments, the damping structures 40 can have a circular cross section. In some embodiments, the damping structures 40 can be hollow. For example, the damping structures 40 can be cylindrical tubes.

[0048] The damping structure 40 may be deformable. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may include a deformable perimeter. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may include a rubber exterior. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may be a closed structure. For example, the damping structure 40 may have closed ends. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may be at least partially filled with a substance. In some embodiments, the entire interior of the damping structure 40 may be filled with a substance 45. For example, the damping structure 40 may be filled with a liquid, gas, and / or any other suitable substance 45 (e.g., silicone). This may create additional resistance to deformation of the damping structure 40 and may allow for further attenuation of seismic forces.

[0049] 26, there is a spacing 42A between the first end of the damping structure 40 and the first plate 12 and / or the second plate 24. In some embodiments, there is a spacing 42B between the second end of the damping structure 40 and the base of the isolation isolator 10. In some embodiments, there is a spacing "a" between the bottom surface of the elongated element(s) 20 and / or the bottom surface of the biasing element 36 and the bottom surface of the lower support element 32. In some embodiments, there is a spacing "b" between the top surface of the biasing element 36 and the first plate 12 and / or the second plate 24. The spacings "a", "b" can be greater than the spacings 42B, 42A, respectively.

[0050] In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 is disposed within the void or perforation 37 of the biasing element 36. In some embodiments, there is a gap or space 44 between the damping structure 40 and the perforation 37. However, the damping structure 40 may also be tightly received within the biasing element 36. In some embodiments, the space 44 between the damping structure 40 and the perforation 37 decreases when a seismic force is present. In some embodiments, the seismic force can cause the perforation 37 to compress and decrease in size and / or move to a closed position. When subjected to a seismic force (e.g., radial pressure) during an earthquake, the damping structure 40 can expand longitudinally. For example, the damping structure 40 can expand longitudinally upward, longitudinally downward, or in both directions. The damping structure 40 may increase in length and / or decrease in diameter when compressed. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 can expand a single gap or spaces 42A, 42B above and / or below each end of the damping structure 40. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 and / or boreholes 37 may be able to retract or return to their original resting positions after an earthquake occurs.

[0051] In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may include a layer 46 configured to reduce the amount of friction generated by the damping structure 40 during its longitudinal expansion. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may include a layer 46 disposed along a portion of the periphery of the damping structure 40. In some embodiments, the damping structure 40 may include a layer 46 disposed along the entire periphery of the damping structure 40. For example, the damping structure 40 may have a PTFE, or other suitable material, a brace.

[0052] More than one isolation isolator 10 can be used in a given structure. For example, at least 2-10 or 2-20 isolation isolators 10 can be used together. The number of isolation isolators 10 can depend on the size of the structure, such as the size of a building or bridge. When multiple isolation isolators 10 are used together, the designs of some of the isolators 10 can be different. For example, the use of multiple isolators 10 (with some of the isolators 10 having different designs) can assist in recentering the isolation isolators 10. Some of the isolators 10 can be used primarily or solely for shock absorption with little or no recentering capability, and some of the isolators 10 can be used to center the multiple isolators 10. The recentering isolators 10 can also provide shock absorption. A combination of centering isolators 10 and non-centering isolators 10 can be used.

[0053] While these inventions have been disclosed in connection with certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the scope of the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or uses of the invention and the use of obvious modifications and their equivalents. In addition, while certain variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications within the scope of these inventions will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based on this disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the present embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention.

[0054] It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the disclosed invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of at least some of the inventions disclosed herein should not be limited by the specific disclosed embodiments described above.

Claims

1. 1. A method of supporting a structure for seismic isolation and re-centering, comprising: supporting the structure with one or more of a first type of seismic isolators; supporting the structure with one or more second type of isolation isolators having a lesser recentering force than the first type of isolation isolators; Including, The first type seismic isolation isolator and the second type seismic isolation isolator each have: A first plate configured to be attached to the structure; and A second plate; a low friction layer positioned between the first plate and the second plate and configured to allow the first plate and the second plate to move relative to one another along a horizontal plane; A method comprising:

2. Using the second type of seismic isolation isolator to provide shock absorption to the structure; The method of claim 1 , further comprising recentering the first type isolation isolator with the second type isolation isolator.

3. The first type seismic isolation isolator and the second type seismic isolation isolator each include: at least one elongated element extending from the first plate; a lower support member attached to the second plate; a biasing element positioned within the lower support member; at least one damping structure including a deformable material and configured to expand longitudinally when compressed; The method of claim 1 further comprising:

4. Utilizing a gap or space defined between a bottom of the elongated element and a bottom of the lower support member to enable the elongated element to move in any direction in a horizontal plane during an earthquake, the gap or space is configured to allow the elongated elements to remain decoupled from the lower support member and to allow the elongated elements to move within an opening defined in the second plate; The method of claim 3 further comprising:

5. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one damping structure includes a first closed end separated from the first plate and a second closed end separated from a base of the seismic isolator.

6. The method of claim 3, characterized in that a PTFE layer is disposed around a periphery of the at least one damping structure.

7. The method of claim 3, characterized in that the actuating element includes at least one void, and the at least one damping structure is disposed within the at least one void.

8. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one damping structure is a cylindrical tube filled with gas, liquid, silicone, or a combination of the gas, liquid, and silicone.

9. The method of claim 3, wherein the damping structure is at least partially filled with the deformable material or is entirely filled with the deformable material.

10. The method of claim 3, wherein the deformable material is a gas, a liquid, silicone, or a combination of the gas, the liquid, and the silicone.

11. The method of claim 3, wherein the at least one elongated element comprises a plurality of elongated elements.

12. The method of claim 3, characterized in that the biasing element is positioned toward a base of the seismic isolator.

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