Modular reversible Anti-seismic bracing for existing buildings with improved resistance and related kit for its realization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing anti-seismic bracing systems for buildings are invasive, alter the structural integrity, hide the architectural value, and require irreversible installation, often necessitating long-term demolition sites.

Innovation Solution

A reversible and recyclable anti-seismic bracing system using shock transmitters, tubular elements, and a Saint Andrew's cross design that clasp to existing beams, remaining mobile during normal conditions and activating only during seismic shocks, with a fireproof glass box-like structure for visibility and compliance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional anti-seismic bracing systems are installed, then seismic resistance is improved, but the building's architectural value and visibility are lost due to invasive structures and fire protection coatings

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseismic resistanceVSAvoidarchitectural visibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The bracing system is divided into modular units (Saint Andrew's cross, tubular elements, shock transmitters) that can be independently installed and positioned to minimize visual impact while maintaining structural effectiveness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a thin, flexible fire protection coating instead of bulky concrete or masonry walls, allowing the building's architectural features to remain visible while providing necessary fire safety

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

2Reliability

If traditional anti-seismic bracing systems are installed, then seismic resistance is improved, but the building structure is permanently modified with irreversible installation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseismic resistanceVSAvoidreversibility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static permanent installation to dynamic reversible installation, allowing the bracing to be adapted, removed, or repositioned based on changing structural needs or building lifecycle requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The modular components can be discarded (removed) from the building after serving their protective function, and recovered (reused) in other applications, reducing waste and enabling adaptability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Reliability

If traditional anti-seismic bracing systems are installed, then seismic resistance is improved, but long-term demolition sites are required causing damage to the existing structure

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseismic resistanceVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The bracing components are pre-assembled and prepared before installation on the building, allowing for quick deployment without requiring long-term demolition sites or extended construction periods that could damage the existing structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4717855A2Modular reversible Anti-seismic bracing for existing buildings with improved resistance and related kit for its realization

Publication Date: 2026.04.01 IUAV UNIVERSITY OF VENICE

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AI summary

The invention relates to a modular anti-seismic bracing system for a building equipped with horizontal structural elements (20), comprising two pillars (2) a Saint Andrew's cross (3) that can be fixed between the two pillars (2) two upper clasping elements (10) that can be fixed to the upper ends of the pillars (2) wherein the upper clasping elements (10) comprise tie-wrapping means for tying said structural elements (20) so that said structural elements (20) are not modified by the application or removal of the module (1).