Multistable energy dissipation device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a multistable energy dissipation device for reinforcing a structure (111) against vibrations. The device comprises a splice profile (12) and a separate first profile and second profile (13, 14), the first profile (13) comprising a connector end (131) and a free end (132), facing a free end (142) of the second profile (14), which are fixed to the structure (111). A free end (131) of the first profile (13) and a free end of the second profile (14) are inserted from opposite ends (122), the edges of the free ends (132, 141) facing each other. A skid (133) of the first profile (13) and a skid (143) of the second profile (14) are in contact with the opposite surfaces of a web (124) of the splice profile (12). A first bi-stable structure (15) and a second bi-stable structure (16) have an axis of the predominant dimension which is inclined at an angle other than 90° with a longitudinal axis.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] A multistable power dissipation device

[0003] Object

[0004] This document refers, in general, to a multi-stable energy dissipation device for passive control of vibrations in civil structures such as buildings, bridges, and industrial equipment caused by natural phenomena such as earthquakes, wind, and, in general, any type of vibrations that are transmitted between parts of a building, a bridge, industrial equipment, between buildings, industrial equipment, and the ground.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Energy dissipators are used for the passive control of vibrations caused by earthquakes or wind. They can be classified into two types: displacement-dependent and velocity-dependent.

[0007] The most commonly used conventional displacement-dependent devices are metallic dampers, which are characterized by employing an energy absorption mechanism based on the yielding of metallic elements. The geometry of the steel elements can vary widely, from circular cross-section bars to plates with longitudinal perforations, and the type of stress that causes yielding can also vary, for example, bending moments, torsional moments, or shear forces.

[0008] Patent document JP2000017849 describes energy sinks that absorb very high amounts of energy, which in order to be activated require that the deformations of the structure be high enough to exceed the yield strain of the metallic element of the sink.

[0009] The deformations in structures caused by severe earthquakes are generally much greater than the yield strain of the metallic elements, which is why conventional metallic dampers are effective against intense earthquakes. However, the same is not true in the case of moderate earthquakes or wind, for which the structural deformations are relatively small and the metallic dampers do not activate and, therefore, do not dissipate energy or control the vibrations of the structure.

[0010] Patent document CN1 13216418 describes velocity-dependent energy dissipators that dissipate energy through viscous or viscoelastic mechanisms. The key to the efficiency of conventional velocity-dependent energy dissipators lies in achieving high relative velocities between the ends of the dissipator and using fluid-type materials, such as viscoelastic solids, with a high damping coefficient.

[0011] These dampers activate with very small displacements and are effective against both severe and moderate earthquakes or wind. Once installed, they require maintenance to prevent potential fluid leaks due to deterioration of the seals or aging of the viscoelastic solid material, which reduces the reliability and lifespan of these dampers. For them to be effective, high velocities between the ends of the damper must be achieved, which is sometimes difficult in certain types of structures. This necessitates increasing the damping coefficient of the material, but this increase has its limits, or installing the damper within toggle brace systems.

[0012] The energy dissipated by velocity-dependent energy dissipators is generally less than the energy dissipated by metallic dissipators, and may be insufficient in the case of very severe earthquakes.

[0013] Patent documents JP2005133444 and KR100952404B1 describe hybrid heat sinks that combine, in parallel or in series, a velocity-dependent dissipation mechanism and a displacement-dependent mechanism. In these heat sinks, the two energy dissipation sources—that of the viscous or viscoelastic mechanism and that of the metal plasticizing mechanism—are achieved by means of two different devices that are activated simultaneously or sequentially.

[0014] The first device features sheets of viscoelastic material that are deformed under shear stress. The second device features perforated steel plates that leave strips of steel between them, which are deformed under bending stress. They have the advantage of being able to control vibrations of both small and large amplitudes. However, they share the same drawbacks as velocity-dependent dampers.

[0015] Summary

[0016] One objective of a multistable energy dissipation device is to improve upon the performance provided by conventional energy dissipators. The multistable energy dissipation device reinforces and stabilizes a structure against vibrations caused by natural phenomena such as earthquakes and wind.

[0017] The multistable energy dissipation device absorbs and dissipates energy from the structure where it is installed, energy introduced by natural phenomena such as earthquakes or wind. This device reduces the lateral displacement of the structure and also reduces the amplification of structural movement, which could otherwise lead to its irreparable destruction.

[0018] The multistable power dissipation device provides two types of power dissipation sources, one displacement-dependent and one velocity-dependent.

[0019] The multistable energy dissipation device comprises a plurality of bistable structures, each generally exhibiting two stable equilibrium positions. By applying a force to the axis of the multistable energy dissipation device, the bistable structures abruptly transition from one stable equilibrium position to the other. This transition occurs at high speed, exceeding the velocity between the ends of the multistable energy dissipation device and the structure in which it is installed. This high speed is achieved not only in the bistable structures but also in other components of the dissipation device.All of this makes the energy dissipation capacity of the multistable power dissipation device greater than that of conventional speed-dependent heatsinks, in which the speed in the different parts of the heatsink is limited to the speed between the ends of the heatsink.

[0020] The bistability characteristic that occurs in the plurality of bistable structures of the multistable energy dissipation device is activated by applying forces in the direction of the axis of the multistable energy dissipation device that produce high-speed deformations in the plurality of bistable structures and in parts of the multistable energy dissipation device to which the bistable structures are connected, and in this way viscous energy is dissipated.

[0021] The multistable energy dissipation device is effective in controlling the vibrations of industrial structures and equipment both in the face of severe earthquakes that cause large amplitude displacements in the structure, and in the face of moderate earthquakes or wind loads that produce small displacements.

[0022] The multistable energy dissipation device comprises a splicing profile with a double-T or H-shaped cross-section. A free end of a first profile is inserted into one end of the H-shaped splicing profile, and a free end of a second profile is inserted into the opposite end of the H-shaped splicing profile, without the edges of the two free ends of the first and second profiles making physical contact. A "flange" or "wing" of the first profile is in physical contact with a surface of a web of the H-shaped splicing profile, and a flange or wing of the second profile is in physical contact with the opposite surface of the web of the H-shaped splicing profile. Therefore, the H-shaped splicing profile simultaneously covers a portion of the first profile and a portion of the second profile, leaving uncovered a portion of a connecting end of the first profile and a portion of the connecting end of the second profile. The connecting ends of the first and second profiles are fixed to the structure.

[0023] The first and second profiles are separate and aligned with the H-shaped splicing profile along the same longitudinal alignment axis. The first and second profiles have a tubular, L, U, T cross-section.

[0024] A first bistable structure provides two stable states, with a predominant dimension constituting the axis of the first bistable structure, where a first end of the bistable structure is mechanically fixed to the web of the first profile and a second end opposite the first end of the bistable structure is mechanically fixed to the flange or wing of the splicing profile, the axis of the predominant dimension having an inclination with an angle other than 90° e with the longitudinal alignment axis.

[0025] Likewise, a second bistable structure provides two stable states, with a predominant dimension constituting the axis of the second bistable structure, where a first end of the bistable structure is mechanically fixed to the web of the second profile and a second end opposite the first end of the bistable structure is mechanically fixed to the flange or wing of the splicing profile, the axis of the predominant dimension having an inclination with an angle other than 90 e with the longitudinal alignment axis.

[0026] The first and second bistable structures have a main body of the prism or cylinder type, with a constant or variable cross-section along the axis of the predominant dimension. If the cross-section of the bistable structure is variable, the main body has an oval cross-section along the axis of the predominant dimension.

[0027] The multistable energy dissipation device comprises a plurality of first bistable structures regularly distributed from the outer edge of the free end of the first profile to the end of the covering portion of the splicing profile, and similarly, a plurality of second bistable structures regularly distributed from the outer edge of the free end of the second profile to the opposite end of the covering portion of the splicing profile. The axes of the predominant dimension of the rows of bistable structures are therefore parallel to each other. One end of a first row of bistable structures is mechanically fixed to a surface of the web of the T-profile, and one end of a second row of bistable structures is mechanically fixed to an opposite surface of the web of the T-profile.

[0028] In another embodiment, the multistable energy dissipation device further comprises a first spring, arranged parallel to the longitudinal alignment axis and located on the surface of the covering portion of the free end of the first profile, and a second spring, also arranged parallel to the longitudinal alignment axis and located on the surface of the covering portion of the free end of the second profile. The first and second springs are of the spring-damper-rod type and have a circular, oval, or polygonal cross-section.

[0029] The springs aligned with the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device exhibit an opposing force in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis if the connecting ends of the first profile and the second profile of the multistable energy dissipation device experience relative displacements in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis.

[0030] A first end of the first spring is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the first profile that is arranged on an outer edge of the first profile's flange located between the connecting end of the first profile and the edge of one end of the splicing profile, and a second end of the first spring, opposite the first end of the first spring, is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the splicing profile's flange.

[0031] Similarly, a first end of the second spring is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the second profile that is arranged on an outer edge of the flange of the second profile located between the connecting end of the second profile and the edge of an opposite end of the splicing profile, and a second end of the second spring, opposite the first end of the second spring, is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the flange of the splicing profile.

[0032] In another embodiment, the multistable energy dissipation device comprises two rows of bistable structures superimposed on a vertical plane, separated by the web of the T-profile, and a spring is also arranged on both sides of the web of the T-profile.

[0033] The multistable energy dissipation device comprises a plurality of double T or H splicing profiles, tubular, L, U, and T cross-section profiles, bistable structures providing two stable states, and springs made of metal, wood, aluminum, fiber-reinforced or unreinforced plastic, or composite material. In the undeformed position of the multistable energy dissipation device, with no external forces applied to the connecting ends of the first and second profiles, the axis of the bistable structure forms an angle θ. o non-zero degrees with the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device.

[0034] The value of angle 0 oThe design is determined based on the target properties of interest for the multistable energy dissipation device. Bistable structures are designed to provide axial stiffness about the axis of the bistable element that is much higher than the flexural stiffness. Bistable structures are individual components that are attached one by one to tubular profiles with an L, U, T, double T, or H cross-section.

[0035] In another embodiment, the bistable structures are arranged together forming a single piece that is fixed by screws to the profiles of the dissipation device.

[0036] The stiffness in the axial direction of the springs is determined according to the target properties of interest for the dissipation device.

[0037] In another embodiment, the springs of the multistable energy dissipation device are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the device, such that one end of the spring is mechanically fixed to the flange of the connecting profile and the opposite end is mechanically fixed to the web of either the first or second profile. The purpose of the spring arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the device is to counteract forces perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the device acting at the ends of the bistable structures.

[0038] The action of an earthquake or wind on the structure where the multistable energy dissipation device is installed causes relative displacements between the ends of the device along the longitudinal alignment axis. These displacements produce relative displacements along the axis of the device between the connecting profile and the tubular profiles (L, U, T, double T, or H cross-sections), which in turn cause relative displacements between the ends of the bistable structures along the longitudinal alignment axis of the device, deforming them.Relative displacements in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device also cause axial deformations in the springs arranged in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device and perpendicular to it.

[0039] Under the action of earthquakes or wind loads on the structure where the multistable energy dissipation devices are installed, these are subjected to relative cyclic displacements of different amplitude between their ends and in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device.

[0040] If the multistable energy dissipation device is subjected to imposed displacements S in a certain direction, compressing or stretching it along the longitudinal alignment axis, a relative displacement occurs between one of the tubular profiles, with an L, U, or T cross-section, and another of the tubular profiles, with a U or double-T cross-section. If this relative displacement reaches a critical value S c The bistable structures, fixed at their ends to the profiles, experience a sudden deformation and the relative displacement goes from being 8 C a ¿>e=¿>7+ 8 se .

[0041] The sudden deformation occurs at high speed, and viscous energy is dissipated during it. The sudden jump of 8 C 8 e This occurs because bistable structures move from one stable equilibrium position to another stable equilibrium position.

[0042] The value of the critical displacementc and the value of the critical force f c The applied force between the ends of the multistable energy dissipation device and in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis is controlled by adjusting the initial value, when the multistable energy dissipation device is not subjected to any external force, of the angle 0 o formed by the axes of the bistable elements with the perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis and the axial stiffness of the springs attached to the profiles. By appropriately adjusting the initial angle 0° and the axial stiffness of the springs, it is possible to small enough for the multistable energy dissipation device to activate and dissipate energy with very small displacements, such as those caused by frequent earthquakes or wind loads.

[0043] If the displacements imposed in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device and in the direction in which the sudden jump occurred As they continue to grow, the bistable structures begin to plasticize, and in this way the multistable energy dissipation device dissipates hysteretic energy. In one embodiment, the multistable energy dissipation device is fabricated with bistable structures of height h measured perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis, forming a certain angle θ. onon-zero with the longitudinal alignment axis, the multistable energy dissipation device is not subjected to any imposed deformation, it is installed in a structure in such a way that when the structure vibrates due to earthquakes or wind loads, relative displacements occur between the T-section profile and the double T or H-section profiles in the direction of the dissipation device axis.

[0044] At a certain instant from when the structure begins to vibrate due to the action of an earthquake or wind, the relative displacement reaches a value equal to the critical displacement and at that instant the bistable structure is momentarily in a position of unstable equilibrium.

[0045] If the earthquake or wind then causes a minimal variation in displacements in the structure that increases the value of The bistable structure suddenly deforms towards the other stable equilibrium position. This deformation causes a high-speed movement of the tubular profile, with a U, double T, or H cross-section, and during this movement, viscous energy is dissipated.

[0046] If, starting from this stable equilibrium position, the relative displacements between the ends of the bistable structure in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device continue to increase without changing sign, the bistable structure experiences plastic deformations and dissipates hysteretic energy.

[0047] The control of the energy dissipated by the viscous mechanism is exerted by modifying the geometry of the bistable structures, from the initial angle 0 owhich forms the axis of the predominant dimension with the perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis, the stiffness of the springs and the characteristics of the materials with which they are manufactured.

[0048] The control of the energy dissipated by the hysteretic mechanism through plastic deformations of bistable structures is exercised by modifying the geometry of these bistable structures and the mechanical properties of the materials with which they are manufactured.

[0049] The multistable energy dissipation device is configured to dissipate energy when subjected to axial deformations imposed along the device's longitudinal alignment axis. If the deformations between the ends of the bistable structures, measured along the device's longitudinal alignment axis, range between -S e and +S e Energy is dissipated solely by the viscous mechanism.

[0050] If the deformations between the ends of the bistable structures measured along the longitudinal alignment axis of the device fall outside the range between -S e and +S e The multistable energy dissipation device also dissipates energy through the hysteretic mechanism.

[0051] The multistable energy dissipation device is installed in a construction as a simple conventional diagonal bar, either connecting points of the primary resistant structure or industrial equipment, or inserted within systems of the "toggle brace" type, "scissors jack system" that amplify the deformations.

[0052] The multistable energy dissipation device that is the subject of this embodiment is therefore based on the high-speed movement of bistable structures and tubular profiles, with a U or double T or H cross-section, that are attached to them at the ends, and on the plastic deformation of the bistable structure itself.

[0053] The multistable energy dissipation device has a low cost, is simple to build, easy to inspect, replace and repair and therefore to reuse since if damage occurs it is concentrated in the bistable structures, it can absorb energy both with small amplitude displacements caused by low intensity earthquakes or wind, as well as with large amplitude displacements caused by severe earthquakes.

[0054] Brief description of the figures

[0055] A more detailed explanation of the multistable power dissipation device according to some embodiments is given in the following description based on the accompanying figures in which:

[0056] Figure 1. Shows in an elevation view an embodiment of a multistable energy dissipation device comprising a splicing profile, two T-profiles, a plurality of bistable structures arranged in overlapping rows, and a plurality of springs arranged in overlapping rows along a longitudinal alignment axis of the device.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a cross-section of the multistable energy dissipation device according to Figure 1, where the section is made by a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device that cuts two T-section profiles at one of their ends, a splicing profile with a double T or H section, and the plurality of bistable structures arranged in overlapping rows fixed to the flanges or wings of the splicing profile and to the web of the T-sections; the mechanical joints are made by means of screws and threaded nuts.

[0058] Figure 3. Shows in a plan view the multistable energy dissipation device according to Figure 1,

[0059] Figure 4 shows a longitudinal section of the multistable energy dissipation device according to Figure 1, where the section cuts the web of the T-profiles of the multistable energy dissipation device, and the web of the double T or H-jointing profile,

[0060] Figure 5. Shows in elevation one of the T-profiles with a connecting end and joining points where one end of the springs is fixed,

[0061] Figure 6. Shows in plan view the splicing profile and the joining points where the other ends of the springs are fixed,

[0062] Figure 7. Shows in elevation a plurality of bistable structures distributed longitudinally, presenting the axis of the predominant dimension with an inclination at an angle other than 90 e with the longitudinal alignment axis of the dissipation device,

[0063] Figure 8. Shows a cross-section of the bistable structure,

[0064] Figure 9. Shows an elevation view of the spring of the coil type,

[0065] Figure 10. Shows in a plan view one end connector of the profile of the multistable energy dissipation device where the profile is mechanically fixed to the structure,

[0066] Figure 1 shows in an elevation view the multistable energy dissipation device fixed to the frame-type structure along an axis defined by the centers of two diametrically opposed beam-column nodes in the polygon formed by the adjacent beams and columns of the structure, and

[0067] Figure 12. Shows in an elevation view the multistable energy dissipation device fixed to the frame-type structure along an axis that joins the center of one of the beam-column nodes with an intermediate point of the beam.

[0068] Detailed description

[0069] With regard to Figures 11 and 12, a multistable energy dissipation device (11) is attached to a primary structure (111) of the type civil construction structure or industrial equipment at different locations on the structure (111). The multistable energy dissipation device (11) is installed in the form of a bracing bar in a diagonal arrangement, in a "chevron" configuration, or as "toggle braces" on the structure (111). It dissipates viscous and hysteretic energy when subjected to axial deformations along the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (11) caused by natural phenomena such as earthquakes and wind.

[0070] With regard now to figures 1 to 4, which show an embodiment of the multistable energy dissipation device (11) comprising a splicing profile (12) with a double T or H-shaped section, a free end (132) of a first profile (13) that is inserted by one end (121) of the H-shaped splicing profile (12) and a free end (142) of a second profile (14) that, in turn, is inserted by the opposite end (122) of the H-shaped splicing profile (12) without the edges of the two free ends (132, 142) of the first profile (13) and the second profile (14) making physical contact.

[0071] A “flange” or “wing” (133) of the first profile (13) is in physical contact with a surface of the web (124) of the H-shaped splicing profile (12) and a flange or wing (143) of the second profile (14) is in physical contact with the opposite surface of the web (124) of the H-shaped splicing profile (12).

[0072] The H-shaped splicing profile (12) simultaneously covers a portion of the first profile (13) and a portion of the second profile (14), leaving uncovered the portion of the connecting end (131) of the first profile (13) and a portion of the connecting end (141) of the second profile (14). The connecting ends (131, 141) of the first profile (13) and the second profile (14) are fixed to the structure (111).

[0073] The first profile (13) and the second profile (14) are separated and aligned together with the H-shaped splicing profile (12) on the same longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device 11. The first profile (13) and the second profile (14) have a tubular, L, U, T type section.

[0074] A first bistable structure (15) provides two stable states, with a predominant dimension, which constitutes the axis of the bistable structure (15), wherein a first end (151) of the first bistable structure (15) is mechanically fixed to the web (134) of the first profile (13) and a second end (152) opposite the first end (151) of the first bistable structure (15) is mechanically fixed to the flange (121) of the splicing profile (12), the axis of the predominant dimension having an inclination with an angle other than 90 ewith the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device A second bistable structure (16) provides two stable states, with a predominant dimension constituting the axis of the second bistable structure (16), where a first end (161) of the second bistable structure (16) is mechanically fixed to the web (144) of the second profile (14) and a second end (162) opposite the first end (161) of the second bistable structure (16) is mechanically fixed to the flange (123) of the splicing profile (12), the axis of the predominant dimension having an inclination with an angle other than 90 e with the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device

[0075] (11).

[0076] The first and second bistable structures (15, 16) have a main body of the prism or cylinder type, with a constant or variable cross-section along the axis of the predominant dimension. If the cross-section of the bistable structure (15, 16) is variable, the main body has an oval cross-section according to the axis of the predominant dimension of the bistable structure (15, 16).

[0077] The multistable energy dissipation device (11) comprises the plurality of first bistable structures (15) regularly distributed from the outer edge of the free end (132) of the first profile (13) towards the end (121) of the covering portion of the splicing profile

[0078] (12) and, similarly, the plurality of second bistable structures (16) are regularly distributed from the outer edge of the free end (142) of the second profile (14) towards the opposite end (122) of the covering portion of the splicing profile (12). Therefore, the axes of the predominant dimension of the rows of bistable structures (15, 16) are parallel to each other.

[0079] Therefore, one end (151) of a first row (153) of bistable structures (15) is mechanically fixed to a surface of the web (134) of the T-profile (13) and one end (161) of a second row (163) of bistable structures (16) is mechanically fixed to an opposite surface of the web (144) of the T-profile (14).

[0080] In another embodiment, the multistable energy dissipation device (11) further comprises a first spring (17), arranged parallel to the longitudinal alignment axis, and located on the surface of the covering portion of the free end (132) of the first profile

[0081] (13) and a second spring (18), arranged parallel to the longitudinal alignment axis, and located on the surface of the covering portion of the free end (142) of the second profile

[0082] (14).

[0083] The first spring (17) and the second spring (18) are of the type a spring, a damper, a bar and have a cross-section of the type circular, oval, polygonal. The springs (17, 18) aligned with the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (11) exhibit an opposing force in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis if the connecting ends (131, 141) of the first profile (13) and the second profile (14) undergo relative displacements in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (11).

[0084] A first end (171) of the first spring (17) is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the first profile (13), which is arranged on an outer edge of the flange (133) of the first profile (13) located between the connecting end (131) of the first profile (13), and the edge of one end of the splicing profile (12), and a second end (172) of the first spring (17), opposite the first end (171) of the first spring (17), is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the flange (123) of the splicing profile (12).

[0085] Similarly, a first end (181) of the second spring (18) is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the second profile (14), which is arranged on an outer edge of the flange (143) of the second profile (14) located between the connecting end (141) of the second profile (14) and the edge of an opposite end of the splicing profile (12), and a second end (182) of the second spring (18), opposite the first end (181) of the second spring (18), is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the flange (123) of the splicing profile (12).

[0086] The T-shaped profiles (13, 14) are fixed directly at one end (131, 141) to the structure (111) where the multistable energy dissipation device (11) is installed. The double T or H-shaped splicing profile (12) (2) is not fixed directly to the structure (111). These profiles are arranged telescopically.

[0087] In relation now to figure 2 where a cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ) is shown, the telescopic arrangement of the T profiles (13, 14) and the double T splicing profile (12), and the bistable structures (15, 16), which are fixed by screws to the T and double T profiles (13, 14), and the springs (17, 18).

[0088] In another embodiment, the multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ) comprises two rows of bistable structures (15,16) superimposed according to a vertical plane of the multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ), being separated by the web (134, 144) of the T-profile (13, 14), and a spring (17, 18) is also arranged on both sides of the web (134, 144) of the T-profile (13, 14).

[0089] The multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ) comprises the double T or H splicing profile (12), tubular, L, U, T cross-section profiles (13, 14), bistable structures (15, 16) that provide two stable states, and springs (17, 18) made of a metallic material, steel, wood, aluminum, plastic with or without fiber reinforcement, or composite material.

[0090] Now in relation to figure 3 where a plan view of the multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ) is shown parallel to the plane of the wings (134) of the splicing profile (12), where the bistable structures (15, 16) and the springs (17, 18) are fixed by screws to the T-profiles (13, 14), in double T.

[0091] Figure 4 shows a longitudinal section of the multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ), where the webs (134, 144) of the T-profiles (13, 14) are shown sectioned, which are perpendicular to the web (124) of the H-profile (12).

[0092] Figure 5 shows an elevation view of one of the T-profiles (13, 14) parallel to the web plane (124) of the splicing profile (12), showing the connection points where one of the ends of one of the springs (17, 18) is fixed.

[0093] Figure 6 shows an elevation view of the double T splice profile (12) parallel to the plane of the web (124) of the same, showing the connection points where one of the ends of one of the springs (17, 18) is fixed.

[0094] Figure 7 shows an elevation view of one of the rows of bistable structures (15, 16) that is parallel to the plane of their axes. The ends of the bistable structures (15, 16) are fixed by screws to the T and double T profiles (13, 14).

[0095] Figure 8 shows a cross-section of one of the bistable structures (15, 16) with an oval section along the axis of the predominant dimension in mechanical contact with the profiles (12, 13, 14) for fixing by screws.

[0096] Figure 9 shows an elevation view of one of the springs (17, 18) with a helical spring shape according to the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (11).

[0097] Figure 10 shows in a plan view a connecting end (131, 141) of the profile (13, 14) of the multistable energy dissipation device (1 1) where the profile (13, 14) is fixed to the structure (11 1).

[0098] The multistable energy dissipation device (11) is activated if the structure (111) is subjected to cyclic longitudinal displacements of extension and shortening in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (11). If the multistable energy dissipation device (11) is subjected to these imposed displacements and a T-profile (13, 14) exhibits a relative displacement with respect to the double T or H-shaped splicing profile (12), the bistable structures (15, 16) attached to these profiles (13, 14) deform in bending and the longitudinal springs (17, 18) lengthen and shorten in the direction of the longitudinal alignment axis of the multistable energy dissipation device (11).

[0099] The bistable structures (15, 16) suddenly move from one stable equilibrium position to another stable equilibrium position, moving the double T splice profile (12) at high speed, dissipating viscous energy.

[0100] In the remaining time intervals, bistable structures (15, 16) undergo plastic deformations, dissipating hysteretic energy. The number of short-duration time intervals depends on the physical and mechanical characteristics of the structure (11 1 ) and on the characteristics of the natural phenomenon, such as an earthquake or wind loads.

[0101] In summary, the multistable energy dissipation device (11) dissipates viscous-type energy through the high-speed movement of the bistable structures (15, 16) and the splicing profile (12), and dissipates hysteretic-type energy through the plasticization of the bistable structures (15, 16).

[0102] For relative displacements between the T-profiles (13, 14) and the double T or H-profile (12) between - e and +¿> e The bistable structures (15, 16) connected to these profiles (13, 14) dissipate viscous energy.

[0103] For relative displacements between the T-profiles (13, 14) and the double T or H-jointing profile (12) that are outside the range- e and + S e , the bistable structures (15, 16) connected to these profiles (13, 14) dissipate hysteretic-type energy.

[0104] In other embodiments the multistable energy dissipation device (11) comprises profiles (13, 14) of tubular, L, U, double T type cross-section. The total number of telescopically arranged profiles (13), (14) is greater than two where the longitudinal springs (17, 18) are of the longitudinal bar or damper type.

[0105] In another embodiment, the springs (17, 18) are of the coil type, bars perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis of the multi-stable energy dissipation device (11) that fix the profiles (13, 14) to other splicing profiles (12) with a tubular, U, double T, or H-shaped cross-section. In another embodiment, the geometry of the bistable structures (15, 16) allows at least two bistable structures (15, 16) to be joined together to form a single unit. The bistable structures (15, 16) are made of a metallic material (steel, aluminum, wood, plastic, or special alloys), and the material from which the springs (17, 18) are made is also metallic (steel, aluminum, plastic, or special alloys).

[0106] Returning now to figure 11 where an installation of the multistable energy dissipation device (11) is shown, installed inside the porticoed structure (111), which is made of a material of the type metal, reinforced concrete, mixed steel-concrete, composite materials, wood, aluminum.

[0107] The structure (11 1 ) is formed by beams (112), columns (113) and beam-column nodes (114). The multistable energy dissipation device (11 ) is installed aligned with the axis defined by the centers of two diametrically opposed beam-column nodes (114) in the rectangle formed by the adjacent beams (1 12) and columns (113).

[0108] In another embodiment, the mechanical connections of the connector ends (131, 141) of the profiles (13, 14) of the multistable energy dissipation device (11) to the attachment points of the structure (111) are made by means of actual joints made with pins, standard structural connections made with welded plates, bolted.

[0109] Returning to Figure 12, another embodiment of the connection of the multistable energy dissipation device (11) is shown, where the multistable energy dissipation device (11) is aligned with an axis that joins the center of one of the beam-column nodes (114) with an intermediate point of the beam (112), allowing for an open space in the span. This open space allows for the installation of elements such as doors and windows.

[0110] The multistable energy dissipation device (1 1 ) is also installed in the resistant structure (11 1 ) as part of dyad (“toggle brace”) or scissor jack systems. References list

[0111] 11 multistable power dissipation device

[0112] 111 structure

[0113] 112 beam

[0114] 113 column

[0115] 114 knot

[0116] 12 splicing profile

[0117] 121 extreme

[0118] 122 opposite end

[0119] 123 skate or wing

[0120] 124 soul

[0121] 13 first profile

[0122] 131 connector end

[0123] 132 free end

[0124] 133 skate or wing

[0125] 134 soul

[0126] 14 second profile

[0127] 141 connector end

[0128] 142 free end

[0129] 143 skate or wing

[0130] 144 soul

[0131] 15 first bistable structure

[0132] 151 first end

[0133] 152 second end

[0134] 153 first row 16 second bistable structure

[0135] 161 first end

[0136] 162 second end

[0137] 163 second row 17 first spring

[0138] 171 first end

[0139] 172 second end

[0140] 18 second spring

[0141] 181 first end 182 second end

[0142] 19 main body

[0143] 0° angle formed by the axes of the bistable elements with the perpendicular to the longitudinal alignment axis h height

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A multistable energy dissipation device for reinforcing a structure (11 1) against vibrations produced by natural phenomena such as earthquakes, wind, characterized in that it comprises: • a splicing profile (12), which has a double T or H shaped section, at least one of a first profile (13) and at least one of a second profile (14) arranged separately on the same longitudinal alignment axis, having a tubular, L, U, T type section, • the first profile (13) comprises a connecting end (131), which is mechanically fixed to the structure (11 1 ), and a free end (132), opposite the connecting end (131 ) of the first profile (13), which is facing a free end (142) of the second profile (14), opposite a connecting end (141 ) of the second profile (14), which is mechanically fixed to the structure (11 1 ), • the free end (132) of the first profile (13) is inserted through one end (121) of the splicing profile (12) and the free end (142) of the second profile (14) is inserted through the opposite end (122) of the splicing profile (12), the edges of the free end (132) of the first profile (13) and the free end (142) of the second profile (14) facing each other without having physical contact, where the flange (133) of the first profile (13) is in physical contact with a surface of the web (124) of the splicing profile (12) and the flange (143) of the second profile (14) is in physical contact with the opposite surface of the web (124) of the splicing profile (12), the splicing profile (12) simultaneously covers a portion of the first profile (13) and a portion of the second profile (14), without covering the portion of the connecting end (131) of the first profile (13) and the connector end portion (141) of the second profile (14), • at least one of a first bistable structure (15), providing two stable states, with a predominant dimension constituting the axis of the first bistable structure (15), wherein a first end (151) of the bistable structure (15) is mechanically fixed to the web (134) of the first profile (13) and a second end (152) opposite the first end (151) of the bistable structure (15) is mechanically fixed to the flange (123) of the splicing profile (12), the axis of the predominant dimension having a tilt with an angle other than 90 e with the longitudinal alignment axis in the undeformed position of the dissipation device, • at least one of a second bistable structure (16), providing two stable states, with a predominant dimension constituting the axis of the second bistable structure (16), wherein a first end (161) of the bistable structure (16) is mechanically fixed to the web (144) of the second profile (14) and a second end (162) opposite the first end (161) of the bistable structure (16) is mechanically fixed to the flange (123) of the splicing profile (12), the axis of the predominant dimension having an inclination with an angle other than 90 e with the longitudinal alignment axis in the undeformed position of the dissipation device.

2. Multistable energy dissipation device according to claim 1, wherein the bistable structure (15, 16) is attached to a profile (12, 13, 14) having a tubular, circular, oval, polygonal, open sections of the L, U, T, double T type.

3. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first and second bistable structures (15, 16) have a main body (19) with a prism-like shape, cylinder with a constant or variable cross-section along the axis of the predominant dimension.

4. Multistable energy dissipation device according to claim 3, wherein the main body (19) has an oval section according to the axis of the predominant dimension.

5. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 3 to 4, wherein a plurality of first bistable structures (15) are regularly distributed from the outer edge of the free end (132) of the first profile (13) towards the end of the covering portion of the splicing profile (12).

6. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 3 to 4, wherein a plurality of second bistable structures (16) are regularly distributed from the outer edge of the free end (142) of the second profile (14) towards the opposite end of the covering portion of the splicing profile (12).

7. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 5 to 6, wherein the predominant dimension axes of two bistable structures (15, 16) are parallel to each other.

8. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein one end (151, 161) of a first row (153, 163) of bistable structures is mechanically fixed to a surface of the web (134, 144) of the T-profile (13, 14) and one end of a second row of bistable structures is mechanically fixed to an opposite surface of the web of the T-profile.

9. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the bistable structure (15, 16) is made of a material of the metallic and / or steel and / or aluminum and / or plastic type with or without fiber reinforcement and / or composite material.

10. A multistable energy dissipation device according to claim 1, further comprising, • At least one of a first spring (17), arranged parallel to the longitudinal alignment axis, a first end (171) of the first spring (17) is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the first profile (13) arranged on an outer edge of the flange (133) of the first profile (13) located between the connecting end of the first profile (13) and the edge of one end of the splicing profile (12), and a second end (172) of the first spring (17), opposite the first end (171) of the first spring (17), is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the shoe (123) of the splicing profile (12), located on the surface of the covering portion of the free end (132) of the first profile (13), and • at least one of a second spring (18), arranged parallel to the longitudinal alignment axis, a first end (181) of the second spring (18) is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the second profile (14) arranged on an outer edge of the flange (143) of the second profile (14) located between the connecting end (141) of the second profile (14) and the edge of an opposite end of the splicing profile (12), and a second end (182) of the second spring (18), opposite the first end (181) of the second spring (18), is mechanically fixed to a joining point of the skid (123) of the splicing profile (12), located on the surface of the covering portion of the free end (142) of the second profile (14).

11. Multistable energy dissipation device according to claim 10, wherein the first spring (17) and the second spring (18) are of the type a spring and / or a damper and / or a bar.

12. Multistable energy dissipation device according to claim 11, where the spring (17, 18) comprises a section of the circular and / or oval and / or polygonal type.

13. Multistable energy dissipation device according to claim 12, wherein the spring (17, 18) is made of a material of the metallic type and / or steel and / or aluminum and / or plastic with or without fiber reinforcement and / or composite material.

14. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 10 to 13, wherein the spring (17, 18) is arranged on both sides of the web of the T-profile (13, 14).

15. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the multistable energy dissipation device (11) is arranged on a diagonal axis of the structure (111), on a longitudinal axis of the structure (111) or on a central axis of the structure (111).

16. Multistable energy dissipation device according to any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the profile (12, 13, 14) has a tubular, L, U, T, double T type section and is made of a metallic and / or steel and / or wood and / or aluminum and / or plastic material with or without fiber reinforcement and / or composite material.

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