Seismic Protection of Bridges via Rocking and Inerters (alternative response modification techniques)

This project explores the utilization of alternative (to conventional seismic isolation) methods, techniques and devices as effective dynamic response modification methods for different structural systems.

Both methods are based on the mobilization of the rotational inertia of different elements; the first one, mobilizes the rotational inertia of bridge piers through uplifting and rocking in order to minimize the forces transferred to the foundations, while the second one, mobilizes the rotational inertia of a set of flywheels that resists the relative acceleration of any diaphragm (can be a bridge deck or a slab in a building, etc), called inerter. Both methods have been proved to be very useful for the seismic design of different types of structures.