UBC Develops Earthquake-Resistant High-Rise Technology
UBC researchers have developed an innovative structural system that enhances the earthquake resilience of high-rise buildings, ensuring safety and structural integrity during significant seismic events. Discover how UBC's new earthquake-resistant technology for high-rise buildings utilizes advanced engineering solutions to absorb seismic energy, prevent structural damage, and promote sustainable construction practices.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have introduced a groundbreaking structural system designed to enhance the earthquake resilience of high-rise buildings. This innovative technology aims to safeguard both the structural integrity of buildings and the safety of their occupants during significant seismic events.
Led by Dr. Tony Yang, a structural engineering professor at UBC, the research team constructed a scale model of a typical 30-storey Vancouver high-rise. This model underwent rigorous testing at the International Joint Research Laboratory of Earthquake Engineering (ILEE) in Shanghai, utilizing one of the world's few large-scale shake tables capable of simulating tall building responses to earthquakes. Over 100 simulated earthquakes of varying magnitudes and durations were applied to the model, including scenarios akin to the Cascadia Subduction Zone's potential seismic activity.
The UBC-developed structural system incorporates a combination of rocking foundations, outriggers, and dampers. This design allows the building to "rock" and absorb seismic energy, rather than resisting it rigidly, thereby preventing structural damage. Notably, some of the dampers utilized were developed and tested at UBC, showcasing the university's commitment to innovative engineering solutions.
The results from the shake table tests were promising. The structural system remained intact and fully functional after exposure to strong seismic forces. This indicates that buildings employing this technology could withstand significant earthquakes without compromising safety or structural integrity.
Beyond enhancing safety, the system's design offers additional benefits. By reducing the stress on concrete cores and foundations, the technology enables lighter construction, leading to more usable space within buildings. This not only contributes to cost-effectiveness but also supports sustainable building practices by optimizing material usage.
While the technology has yet to be implemented in full-scale projects, Dr. Yang's team plans to collaborate with engineering firms and community partners to integrate the system into both residential and commercial developments. The successful demonstration of this technology marks a significant advancement in earthquake engineering, offering a viable solution to enhance the resilience of high-rise buildings in earthquake-prone regions worldwide.
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