Particle Damping Seismic Energy Dissipation Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy dissipation devices for seismic protection are costly, difficult to manufacture, and require power sources, with uneven force distribution in compression and tension leading to overstrength issues and environmental pollution, while also being hard to retrofit and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A passive energy dissipation device comprising a container filled with granular material, a movable plate, and rods, which dissipates seismic energy through a force-displacement hysteresis loop without an external energy source, featuring a configuration that is cost-effective, easy to manufacture, and adaptable for various applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional seismic resistance systems are used to allow structures to absorb energy, then structural protection is achieved, but environmental pollution and social costs increase due to demolition
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the energy dissipation function from the main structural members and places it in separate particle damping containers. This allows the structure to be protected from seismic damage while the particles absorb the energy, avoiding the need to demolish or replace structural components and reducing environmental pollution.
Solution Approach 2:
The particle damping material acts as an intermediary between the seismic load and the structure. The particles absorb and dissipate seismic energy through friction and collision, protecting the structure without requiring demolition or replacement of structural elements.
2Reliability
If seismic isolation systems are used to separate structures from ground motion, then structural damage is avoided, but the system becomes costly and difficult to reinforce after earthquakes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the energy dissipation system into separate modular containers filled with particles, which can be independently installed at specific locations on the structure. This segmentation simplifies the overall system compared to comprehensive seismic isolation systems while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The particle damping system is a passive device that automatically dissipates seismic energy without requiring external power sources or complex control systems. The particles self-adjust during seismic events, making the system simple to operate and maintain.
3Reliability
If seismic damping systems are used to absorb incoming energy, then structural protection is achieved, but the device must be replaced after damage
Solution Approach 1:
The particle damping material is inexpensive and can be easily replenished. If particles become damaged or less effective, they can be quickly replaced by refilling the containers, making the system more economical and easier to maintain than traditional damping devices.
4Force
If traditional braces are used to provide lateral resistance, then energy absorption is achieved, but overstrength behavior damages structural members and increases cost
Solution Approach 1:
The particle damping containers are strategically placed at specific locations where energy dissipation is most needed, such as near the base of the structure or at floors with high seismic demand. This localized approach provides effective lateral resistance without creating overstrength in other parts of the structure.
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 device effectively dissipates seismic energy across a wide range of displacement amplitudes and loading rates, reducing structural damage and maintenance costs, while being easily configurable and suitable for both new and existing structures, with improved damping capabilities and reduced environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
The container is filled with granular material that dissipates energy through friction and collision between particles
Implementation Method 2
The container is filled with granular material that dissipates energy through friction and collision between particles
Implementation Method 3
The device dissipated more energy if the force-displacement hysteresis loop gets wider
Data Source
AI summary
An energy dissipation device is disclosed. The device includes a container, where the container includes a top plate that is horizontally slotted on the container. In addition, the device includes at least one movable plate is inserted through a slot inside the container, and at least two holes inserted in the at least one movable plate. Moreover, the device includes at least two rods partially threaded at both sides of the container. In some implementations, the device may include a frame. In addition, the device includes a damper fixed inside the frame, and a plurality of braces installed in the frame to provide support to the damper. Moreover, the device includes at least one beam and at least one horizontal plate fixed to a bottom face of the at least one beam. A method of assembling an energy dissipation device is also disclosed.