Seismic Isolation Platform with Shear Bolt Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional seismic base isolation systems are ineffective for lightweight low-rise buildings in liquefaction-prone areas, as they fail to adequately dissipate kinetic energies and prevent damage from liquefaction-induced subsidence and lateral movements during earthquakes.
Innovation Solution
A seismic base isolation system comprising a structural platform on piles with shear bolts that allow the platform to move independently of the piles during seismic activity, dissipating kinetic energies and preventing liquefaction-induced damage by isolating the structure from the ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional base isolation devices (LRBs, sliding isolators) are used, then seismic isolation is achieved, but cost and technical complexity increase making them unsuitable for lightweight low-rise buildings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive components including steel channels, timber elements, and basic fasteners that can be easily replaced after seismic events. The isolation mechanism uses straightforward friction-based sliding between steel and timber surfaces rather than complex engineered isolators, making the system economically viable for lightweight low-rise buildings while maintaining adequate seismic protection
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation system is divided into distinct modular components: steel channels embedded in the foundation, timber bearing elements, isolation joints, and replaceable fasteners. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently and enables easy replacement of damaged parts after earthquakes, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining isolation effectiveness
2Reliability
If conventional base isolation devices are used, then seismic isolation is achieved, but weight and cost increase making them rare in lightweight structures
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses lightweight, inexpensive materials such as steel channels, standard timber beams, and simple fasteners rather than heavy, expensive conventional isolators. The isolation mechanism relies on basic friction between lightweight steel and timber surfaces, enabling effective seismic isolation for lightweight low-rise buildings without adding significant weight or cost
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using heavy, complex isolators to prevent movement, the patent inverts the approach by using lightweight components that allow controlled sliding and movement through friction-based isolation joints. This inversion enables seismic protection specifically tailored for lightweight structures where conventional heavy isolators would be prohibitively expensive and weight-intensive
3Stability of the object's composition
If the platform is rigidly connected to piles, then structural stability is maintained, but earthquake energy dissipation and liquefaction protection are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces timber bearing elements and isolation joints as intermediary components between the steel foundation channels and the superstructure. These intermediaries provide controlled friction-based sliding that dissipates earthquake energy while maintaining adequate structural stability, allowing the system to achieve both stability and energy dissipation simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic friction-based sliding mechanism. The isolation joints and timber bearing elements allow controlled movement during seismic events, enabling energy dissipation through friction while maintaining structural integrity. This dynamic behavior allows the system to adapt to earthquake forces while protecting the lightweight 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 system effectively protects lightweight low-rise buildings from earthquake damage by allowing the platform to move freely during seismic events, reducing the risk of liquefaction-induced subsidence and deformation, and enabling easy post-earthquake repositioning and repair.
Implementation Method 1
at least one shear bolt that links a platform plate to a pile, wherein the at least one bolt is designed to shear in the event of a predetermined level of seismic activity
Implementation Method 2
which abuts the platform plate
Data Source
AI summary
A seismic isolation building system, and method thereof, for buildings and other structures that is well suited to protect lightweight low rise buildings including houses against earthquakes, particularly where the structure is located in low lying wet regions subject to liquefaction. The system utilizes a platform with piles extending from the platform into a ground, wherein the piles are connected to the platform via at least one shear bolt that links a platform plate to a pile. The shear bolt or bolts are designed to shear in an event of a predetermined level of seismic activity freeing the platform and structure on the platform to move independent of the piles. Post seismic activity, the platform and structure are moved, repositioned and/or re-fixed to new or existing piles thereby minimizing damage to the structure and hence repair costs.