Rocking technology may be the answer to earthquake resistant structures!

Michael Pollino, researcher from the Case Western Reserve University has recently published his findings on a new innovative technique that will allow buildings to rock during an earthquake and return to equilibrium at the end of shaking. Rocking technology is still in early development stages but Pollino as well as other researchers are warm supporters and aim in developing design standards for practicing engineers.

According to current earthquake designs, buildings are left to deform and sustain structural damage from the earthquake loads, with particular focus to collapse prevention. A new design technique, also known as "rocking steel-braced frames" provides an alternative in earthquake design. The fundamental idea behind it, is that columns of the braced frame are not anchored to the foundation but connected to it through dampers and steel-yielding devices. During dynamic loading the building is allowed to oscillate, while devices stretch and compress, dissipating the seismic energy. The building's own weight and post-tensioning strands are responsible for restoring the structure to equilibrium after the end of shaking. 

Michael Pollino, assistant civil engineering professor at Case Western Reserve University, although not the inventor of the rocking-frame has developed a computer model that compares the rocking frame's performance to the conventional design methodology. Among his findings, is that although the method has some "upfront costs", has significant benefits such as easier and cheaper repair requirements. 

 Prof. Pollino's goal is to get funding for physical tests in the university's structures laboratory. His scientific results are published in the Engineering Structures journal and are also accessible here!