42.6. Design Considerations for Base Isolation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does site suitability refer to?

   Hint

   Think about the characteristics of the land.

2. 2.

   Why is building configuration important?

   Hint

   Consider how shapes can influence movement.

3. 3.

   What is a seismic gap?

   • Space for isolators to move
   • Foundation material
   • Load-bearing wall

   Hint

   Think about what the gap needs to accommodate.

4. 4.

   True or False: Fire and maintenance considerations are unnecessary for isolators.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the longevity of the isolators.

5. 5.

   Given a site with soft soil, evaluate whether base isolation is a suitable option and propose alternatives if not.

   Hint

   Consider what happens to structures built on soft soil.

6. 6.

   Design a base-isolated structure ensuring adequate seismic gap based on known movement patterns from previous earthquakes.

   Hint

   Refer to historical earthquake data for guidance.