Hybrid Seismic Isolation Assembly for Multi-Directional Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Eccentrically constructed ground-supported structures with high centers of gravity are challenging to isolate effectively from seismic loads due to multi-directional load inputs, which can cause damage to ceramic insulator plates and increase inspection and repair costs.
Innovation Solution
A seismic isolation assembly comprising horizontally disposed support plates with wire rope isolators and linear dampers, where the linear dampers are strategically angled and positioned between the wire rope isolators to provide additional damping for multi-directional load inputs, including viscous hydraulic dampers that can be adjusted for varying loading conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wire rope isolators are used for seismic isolation, then isolation from compressive, tensile and shear loads is achieved, but multi-directional load inputs from high-CG and eccentric structures cannot be effectively compensated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines wire rope isolators with linear dampers into a hybrid seismic isolation system. The wire rope isolators provide isolation from compressive, tensile and shear loads, while the linear dampers add viscous damping capability to handle multi-directional load inputs, creating a more versatile system that addresses both isolation effectiveness and adaptability to complex loading conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The linear dampers are designed to provide multi-directional damping capability, allowing the system to handle various loading conditions including seismic events, wind loads, and operational vibrations. This multi-functional approach enables the isolation system to adapt to different types of dynamic loads that affect high-CG and eccentric structures
2Reliability
If linear dampers are added to provide additional damping for multi-directional load inputs, then damping capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seismic isolation system is segmented into distinct functional components: wire rope isolators for primary isolation and linear dampers for additional damping. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity. The linear dampers are strategically positioned at specific locations rather than uniformly distributed, reducing the total number of components needed
3Reliability
If viscous hydraulic dampers are used to minimize hysteresis effects, then energy dissipation is improved, but manufacturing and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs viscous hydraulic dampers that utilize fluid dynamics to provide controlled damping forces. These dampers minimize hysteresis effects through their hydraulic design, which allows for smooth energy dissipation. The hydraulic mechanism provides predictable damping characteristics while maintaining reasonable manufacturing requirements through standardized component designs
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 solution effectively reduces the risk of damage from seismic loads by providing reliable and versatile damping, minimizing hysteresis effects and allowing for the isolation of structures with high centers of gravity, thereby enhancing the useful life and reliability of such structures.
Implementation Method 1
Certain assemblies are known that provide isolation using wire rope isolators from compressive, tensile and shear loads
Implementation Method 2
The linear dampers can accordingly to one embodiment be comprised of viscous based dampers, such as hydraulic dampers, that provide the additional damping for multi-directional load inputs
Data Source
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AI summary
A seismic isolation assembly is defined by a first support plate and a second support plate disposed in parallel relation with a spacing being provided between the support plates. The first support plate is connected to ground and the second support plate is attached to a structure to be isolated. A set of wire rope isolators are disposed between the first and second support plates and at least one linear damper is angularly disposed between the first and second support plates.