Device for Control of Building Settlement and for Seismic Protection

Abstract

The device allows controlled transfer of the building loads to the foundation piles, such that the building neither settles nor emerges with respect to the surrounding ground, in areas where the subsoil is highly compressible, as is that of Mexico City. Additionally, the device dissipates energy when the building experiences rocking motion under the action of earthquake forces. The device is fixed to the head of each of the foundation piles, which pass freely through the building base slab. Also, the device is fixed to the base slab, such that it provides, by means of deformable elements that undergo a rolling‐bending motion, a variable length connection between foundation piles and building.