Earthquake resistant buildings

In order to withstand the impact of an earthquake, a building must redistribute its shockwaves. Several design features can handle the side-to-side forces emitted by a quake


Pendulum power: Large ball on steel cables connects to hydraulic system. When building begins to sway, ball acts as pendulum

Window shutters: Prevent falling glass

Shear walls: High quality concrete reinforced with steel bars

Cross braces: Diagonal supports resist swaying forces

Base isolation: When flexible foundation moves, isolators absorb seismic waves to prevent them from travelling through building

Reinforced steel discs
Discs separated by rubber
Lead core
Rubber cover


Base isolator
Flexible foundation


Sources: The Constructor, Dream Civil, Big Rentz
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