Uplifting Slide Bearing (1) －Characterization of Dynamic Properties－

The Uplifting Slide Bearing is developed as a seismic response control device for multi-span continuous girder bridges; the idea of the proposed device is represented by the use of combination of horizontal and inclined sliding surfaces in the sliding bearings, and can be used as a feasible and cost-effective solution to the problem of increased sizes of expansion joints for seismic design of the bridges of this type in urbanized areas for strong earthquakes, by reducing expected girder displacements in the event of strong earthquakes, while the problem of thermal expansion and contraction of the girders is effectively circumvented. The fundamental dynamic behaviour and effectiveness of the Uplifting Slide Bearing installed to bridges are investigated based on the energy principles of dynamics of structural systems involving the concept of kinetic energy, gravitational potential energy, and numerical seismic response analysis using simplified and bridge models.

Evaluation of seismic response and design principles to achieve the target seismic performance of bridge structures with the use of the proposed device is discussed.