[reference]
G. Tsiatas, A. Charalampakis, P. Tsopelas. New advances on rolling-type isolation systems, ECEE 2026, 14-18/09/2026, Berlin, Germany.
[abstract]
Rolling-type base isolation as a means of earthquake protection has been recognized for over a century, yet it has advanced rapidly in recent years due to increased research interest. Significant developments in the modeling and experimental testing of rolling-type isolators have broadened both the understanding and acceptance of this concept. This study focuses on recent models of rolling-type isolation that capitalize on the rolling mechanism’s ability to convert translational motion into rotational motion, thereby reducing the accelerations and forces transmitted to the superstructure. Among these developments is the patented 3-Dimensional Geared Rocking/rolling Inverse Pendulum System (3DGRIPS), which was specifically conceived to address limitations of conventional rolling isolators. The 3DGRIPS system is designed to protect lightweight, high-value assets—such as museum exhibits, servers, and hospital or telecommunications equipment—by employing a toothing geometry at its contact surfaces to prevent slippage and enhance energy dissipation. In addition, the inclusion of a flat resting surface reduces stress concentrations, provides impact-related damping, and ensures complete recentering of the isolated system to its original equilibrium position following seismic excitation.
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