When a massive earthquake hit northeastern Japan in March 2011, the shaking was felt far from the epicenter.
Many skyscrapers in Tokyo experienced what is known as long-period ground motion.
Construction companies are now working on methods to reduce the damage this can cause.
Major construction firm Shimizu conducted a test on a model skyscraper. A vibration-reduction system was installed in the upper floors.
This is a departure from the more traditional approach of placing dampers between the building and its underground foundation.
Engineers say the swaying on the upper floors was reduced by 30 percent compared to a model without the system. They say the movement of the entire building was also less.
The technology is already being applied. It will be used in a 43-story building set to open in Tokyo's Minato Ward in February 2025.
◆epicenter 震源地、震央 epicenter
Many skyscrapers in Tokyo experienced what is known as long-period ground motion.
Construction companies are now working on methods to reduce the damage this can cause.
Major construction firm Shimizu conducted a test on a model skyscraper. A vibration-reduction system was installed in the upper floors.
This is a departure from the more traditional approach of placing dampers between the building and its underground foundation.
Engineers say the swaying on the upper floors was reduced by 30 percent compared to a model without the system. They say the movement of the entire building was also less.
The technology is already being applied. It will be used in a 43-story building set to open in Tokyo's Minato Ward in February 2025.
◆epicenter 震源地、震央 epicenter
◆long-period ground motion. 長周期地震動 t
◆damper 緩衝器 a piece of equipment that stops a movement from being too strong
◆swaying 揺れること to move slowly from one side to another