Author(s)

P. Huber & R. Medeot

Abstract

The Sliding Isolation Pendulum (SIP) is a new seismic isolator that can be ideally derived from a conventional PTFE spherical sliding bearing in which the flat surface that accommodates translation movements has been substituted by a concave sliding surface. This important, albeit simple modification, transforms a structural bearing into a perfect seismic isolator providing all necessary functions of a seismic isolation system for a building. Besides the adoption of the curved sliding surface, the Sliding Isolation Pendulum differs from a conventional PTFE spherical sliding bearing in its use of a new elasto-plastic sliding material and certain design details that translate into an enhanced level of performance. This paper illustrates the innovative aspects that distinguish the Sliding Isolation Pendulum from other existing similar devices, the substantial advantages it can accrue vis-à-vis previously used technologies, as well as the practical applications. Keywords: seismic isolator, seismic hardware, sliding pendulum, Friction Pendulum, seismic protection. 1 Introduction In 1970 the Company Kreutz/Germany invented and patented the spherical bearing (Fig. 1, left) to accommodate relative rotations and displacements effectively with the sliding couple PTFE (Teflon) against stainless steel. Based on the principles of the spherical bearing, in 1988 the Friction Pendulum bearing was invented by Victor Zayas [1]. Ideally, the Friction Pendulum can be derived from a spherical bearing in which the flat surface that accommodates translation movements has been substituted by a curved surface (Fig. 1, right).

Keywords

seismic isolator, seismic hardware, sliding pendulum, Friction Pendulum, seismic protection.