How do buildings in countries with frequent earthquakes like Japan design buildings that are safe for residents?
In countries with frequent earthquakes like Japan, how do they design buildings to be safe for residents?
Japan is one of the countries most exposed to earthquakes in the world, as it is located on the “Ring of Fire,” an area of continuous tectonic movement that encompasses the intersection of several tectonic plates, including the Pacific and Philippine plates. This results in frequent earthquakes of both small and large magnitudes. To cope with this inevitable disaster, Japan has developed strict construction laws and standards, as well as building design technologies that prioritize maximum safety for occupants, by combining structural engineering knowledge and modern innovation.
Design principles for earthquake resistance in Japanese buildings
Flexible Structures
A key principle in designing earthquake-resistant buildings. In Japan is to create highly flexible structures that can better absorb and dissipate energy from vibrations. Structures that are too rigid may break when subjected to impact, but using flexible materials such as steel or wood allows the building to move with the earthquake without collapsing. A clear example is traditional Japanese houses, which often use wood as the main material because of its natural flexibility and light weight.
Base Isolation Systems (BIS)
The floating foundation technology is a popular innovation in Japan. Especially for high-rise buildings or major structures such as hospitals and office buildings. This สนใจสมัคร? คลิกที่นี่เพื่อเริ่มต้น system uses a movable foundation, with special rubber or rollers installed between the building and the ground. To reduce vibrations transmitted from the ground to the building. This technology has been in development since the 1980s and has been continuously improved. A clear example is the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower in Tokyo, which uses a floating foundation system for safety. Leading institutions such as the Tokyo Institute of Technology play a major role in the research and development of this technology.
Design with Reinforced Structures
Buildings in Japan often use reinforced concrete and steel reinforcement to increase strength, with an emphasis on reinforcing steel at key load-bearing points such as columns and beams. Which helps the building withstand earthquakes more effectively. Combining strong materials such as steel with concrete also allows the structure to be somewhat flexible, reducing potential damage. A notable example is the Tokyo Tower , which uses a steel reinforcement structure to provide both strength and flexibility.
Damping Systems
Many high-rise buildings in Japan are equipped with vibration damping systems. Such as Tuned Mass Dampers , which are large pendulums placed on the top floors of the building to counterbalance and reduce shaking from earthquakes or strong winds. A notable example is the Tokyo Skytree , which uses this system for stability. In addition, shock absorbers or vibration-absorbing materials are installed in the main structure to reduce the intensity of shaking that affects the building. Making it safer for occupants.
Symmetrical Design
A building that is designed with vertical and horizontal symmetry distributes vibrations evenly. Reducing the chances of the building being damaged by “torsion”, which is common in buildings with asymmetrical shapes. This principle is accepted and recommended by the Japan Society of Civil Engineers (JSCE). Which states that symmetrical design is an effective way to increase the stability of a building during an earthquake.
Japan has developed building designs that combine resilience, strength, and modern technologies. Such as floating foundations, vibration damping, and symmetrical design to cope with frequent earthquakes. Buildings that incorporate these technologies. Such as the Tokyo Skytree, Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, and Tokyo Tower, demonstrate the success of this approach. Making Japan a model for safe construction in disaster-prone areas and providing occupants with peace of mind even in the event of natural disasters.