Seismic Isolation Device with Elasto-Plastic Damper
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic isolation apparatuses, particularly those using laminated rubber, are ineffective in absorbing large long-period earthquake vibrations, leading to potential breakage and inadequate absorption of impact forces, especially in three-dimensional displacement scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A seismic isolation apparatus comprising a support plate, a base plate, and an elasto-plastic damper with an inner and outer cylinder, where the elasto-plastic member undergoes plastic deformation to absorb and consume the energy from dropped structures, preventing vertical impulsive vibrations and structural damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional seismic isolation apparatus using laminated rubber is used, then short-period displacement response is effectively controlled, but large long-period displacement response cannot be handled and structural breakage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The seismic isolation apparatus is divided into multiple functional segments: laminated rubber layers for short-period isolation, sliding members for large displacement accommodation, and energy dissipation components. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in handling specific earthquake characteristics without compromising overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus transitions from a static rigid rubber isolation system to a dynamic system with sliding members that can adapt their configuration based on displacement magnitude. The sliding mechanism activates dynamically when large long-period displacements occur, enabling the system to maintain effectiveness across varying earthquake intensities.
2Force
If elastic bodies are used to provide cushioning action, then impact force from structure dropping is reduced, but energy is not absorbed and vertical impulsive vibration occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the harmful elastic rebound effect into a beneficial energy dissipation mechanism. By introducing sliding members with friction and energy dissipation components, the previously wasted elastic energy is transformed into useful heat energy through controlled friction, thereby absorbing impact energy while reducing vertical impulsive vibrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus incorporates hydraulic or pneumatic damping mechanisms that convert mechanical impact energy into fluid flow energy, which is then dissipated as heat. This provides controlled energy absorption during structure dropping while maintaining smooth motion and reducing impulsive vibrations.
3Length of moving object
If laminated rubber is allowed to slide to handle displacement, then side-to-side displacement is controlled, but three-dimensional displacement including vertical direction cannot be absorbed
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding members are designed with multi-functional capabilities: they provide horizontal displacement accommodation through sliding, vertical displacement accommodation through controlled sinking into energy dissipation components, and rotational displacement handling through articulated connections. This universal design enables the apparatus to handle three-dimensional displacement effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds vertical dimensionality to the traditionally horizontal sliding mechanism. The sliding members can sink vertically into energy dissipation components while maintaining horizontal sliding capability, thereby transforming a two-dimensional isolation system into a three-dimensional system that handles displacement in all spatial directions.
4Force
If support members are brought into contact to support structure weight, then structural support is provided, but violent collision and member breakage may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus pre-positions energy dissipation components and cushioning elements in advance along the potential collision path. When the structure displaces during earthquake vibration, these pre-positioned components gradually engage and absorb energy, preventing violent collisions and protecting support members from breakage.
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 absorbs drop impact forces and reduces the risk of structural breakage by utilizing plastic deformation of the elasto-plastic member within the damper, ensuring continued support of the structure's self-weight and minimizing horizontal displacement during seismic events.
Implementation Method 1
an elasto-plastic member (14) provided inside the inner cylinder (5)... causing a plastic deformation of the elasto-plastic member (14)
Implementation Method 2
the inner cylinder (5) and the outer cylinder (7) are configured to mutually slide in axis direction thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A seismic isolation apparatus is provided between a structure and a foundation floor, and the seismic isolation apparatus includes: a support plate that is provided so as to face the structure at a predetermined interval; a base plate that is fixed to the foundation floor; and an elasto-plastic damper that is provided between the support plate and the base plate to be fixed to the support plate and the base plate. The elasto-plastic damper includes an inner cylinder inside which an elasto-plastic member is provided and an outer cylinder, and the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder are configured to mutually slide in an axis direction thereof.