Adaptive Torsion Isolator With Cylindrical Dampers for Seismic Re-Centering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing torsion isolators are heavy due to multiple rail systems, limiting efficient damping and being restricted to a single location, thus failing to provide effective seismic isolation for buildings, tanks, and bridges.
Innovation Solution
A multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator with four or more cylindrical energy dissipaters and a flat or articulated slider, which allows for vertical load transmission, low friction, and horizontal displacement, integrating hysteretic energy dissipaters for both damping and re-centering capabilities, with geometrical stiffening behavior to enhance seismic resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If multiple rail systems are used in torsion isolators, then damping capacity is improved, but weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the damping function and load-bearing function into a single integrated energy dissipater unit. The cylindrical energy dissipater with enlarged ends directly supports vertical loads while providing damping through its structural design, eliminating the need for separate rail systems and reducing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The cylindrical energy dissipater is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides damping, supports vertical loads, and enables horizontal displacement. This multi-functional component replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated components for each function.
2Stability of the object's composition
If isolators are positioned to a single location, then structural stability is maintained, but damping efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The isolator system is segmented into multiple cylindrical energy dissipaters (at least two or more) distributed around the column. Each dissipater independently provides damping, and their combined effect enhances overall damping efficiency while maintaining structural stability through the distributed configuration.
3Loss of energy
If traditional torsion isolators are used, then damping function is provided, but load-bearing capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the damping mechanism and load-bearing structure into a single integrated component. The cylindrical energy dissipater with enlarged ends directly supports vertical loads from the slider while simultaneously providing damping through its structural configuration, achieving both functions in one element.
4Loss of energy
If friction-based damping is used, then damping is provided, but horizontal displacement capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional friction-based damping mechanisms with a structural damping approach. The cylindrical energy dissipaters provide damping through their structural configuration and material properties rather than relying on friction, enabling greater horizontal displacement capacity without sacrificing damping effectiveness.
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 provides lightweight seismic isolation with both damping and load-bearing properties, effectively dissipating earthquake energy through geometrical stiffening, reducing structural displacements and supporting vertical loads while allowing horizontal displacement in any direction.
Implementation Method 1
the arm connected to the energy dissipater, the sliding block that is connected to the ends of the arms by using an installation shaft, a cylindrical sliding bearing 1 installed between the installation shaft and the sliding block
Implementation Method 2
The hysteretic energy dissipater units provide damping and re-centering. The hysteretic energy dissipater units (hysteretic dampers) of the multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator are the cylindrical energy dissipaters.
Implementation Method 3
The flat and/or articulated slider (13) positioned on top of the column provides vertical load transmission, low friction and horizontal displacement capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator is used for isolating buildings, tanks and bridges from earthquakes. The multidirectional adaptive re-centering torsion isolator includes a flat and/or articulated slider and four or more cylindrical energy dissipaters. The flat and/or articulated slider positioned on top of the column provides vertical load transmission, low friction and horizontal displacement capacity. The cylindrical energy dissipaters provide displacement, re-centering and damping in any of the horizontal directions.