Introduction

The invention, named CASM isolator, represents an innovative tool for seismic isolation. Compared to the technologies already present in the civil engineering field, the CASM isolator optimizes the use of materials with significant advantages from both economic and environmental points of view.

Technical features

The function of the CASM device is to isolate a civil structure, or in general a structural element, from vibrations deriving from seismic events or other industrial applications involving dynamic excitations. The device is composed of steel elements and prisms of elastomeric material. Such elements form a pyramidal structure. The supporting element is placed at the base of the pyramid while the vertex of the pyramid is connected to the element that should be isolated. Unlike other similar products, in which dissipation and isolation are obtained by means of hysteresis cycles with shear deformation of rubber blocks and yielding of steel materials, the performance of CASM is obtained exclusively by means of axial deformations of the elastomeric material. An experimental proof of concept was performed, TRL=3.

Possible Applications

• Seismic Isolators;
• Seismic Dampers;
• Vibration control in industrial applications.

Advantages

• Reduction and optimization of the material used;
• Wide spectrum of stiffnesses achievable;
• Easily adaptable to any need;
• Reduction of the environmental impact;
• Easily maintained and inspected.