3D PrintingMechanical DesignCAD
Seismic Base Isolation
A 3D printed linear roller mechanism that dramatically reduces building acceleration during seismic events
May 2022 Ben Jacobson
Background
Concept
Base isolation decouples a building from ground motion during an earthquake. Instead of shaking with the ground, the building slides independently — dramatically reducing the accelerations transferred to the structure.
Implementation
A 3D printed linear roller mechanism allows the building model to slide freely in the direction of simulated ground motion while supporting its full weight vertically.
Result
The building saw a significant decrease in measured acceleration with the isolator in place, validated by before/after tests on a sinusoidal shaking table.