Adaptive Torsion Isolator With Re-Centering and Lightweight Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torsion isolators are heavy and limited to single-point damping, failing to provide efficient damping and load-bearing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator with a flat articulated slider and cylindrical energy dissipaters, integrated with hysteretic energy dissipater units, providing vertical load transmission, low friction, and horizontal displacement capacity, along with damping and re-centering capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional torsion isolators with multiple rail systems are used, then damping capability is provided, but the isolator becomes very heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the damping function and load-bearing function into a single integrated isolator unit. The energy dissipater units are integrated with the slider assembly, eliminating the need for separate heavy rail systems while maintaining damping capability and reducing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The isolator is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides damping through energy dissipater units, supports vertical loads through the slider, and enables horizontal displacement. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components, reducing weight while maintaining all required capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If torsion isolators are positioned at a single location, then installation is simplified, but efficient damping cannot be provided to the entire structure
Solution Approach 1:
The isolator incorporates multiple energy dissipater units (at least two) within a single assembly, allowing it to provide distributed damping coverage. This segmentation of damping functions within one unit maintains installation simplicity while improving overall damping efficiency across the structure.
3Force
If traditional isolators are designed for load bearing, then structural support is provided, but damping capability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the load-bearing slider mechanism with energy dissipater units into a single integrated assembly. The slider handles vertical loads while the integrated energy dissipaters provide damping, allowing both functions to work together without compromising either capability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The isolator achieves lightweight construction with both damping and load-bearing properties, effectively dissipating earthquake energy through geometric stiffening, reducing displacements and supporting structures like buildings and tanks.
Implementation Method 1
the cylindrical sliding bearings, the arm connected to the energy dissipater, the sliding block that is connected to the ends of the arms by using an installation shaft, a cylindrical sliding bearing 1 installed between the installation shaft and the sliding block
Implementation Method 2
The flat articulated slider positioned on top of the column provides vertical load transmission, low friction and horizontal displacement capacity
Implementation Method 3
The present invention has both damping and load bearing properties. The distinctive feature in the power change of the multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator in response to energy dissipater units is the geometrical stiffening behavior
Implementation Method 4
The cylindrical energy dissipaters provide displacement, re-centering and damping in any of the horizontal directions
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention subject matter of the application is related to a multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator that is used for isolating buildings, tanks and bridges from earthquakes. The multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator comprises a flat and/or articulated slider and four or more cylindrical energy dissipaters. The flat and/or articulated slider positioned on top of the column provides vertical load transmission, low friction and horizontal displacement capacity. The cylindrical energy dissipaters provide displacement, re-centering and damping in any of the horizontal directions.