Kawakin Core-Tech (Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, President Nobuyoshi Suzuki) has developed a next-generation passive-type "Inertial Mass (DM) Tuned Mass Damper (TMD)" in collaboration with the Seismic Isolation and Structural Engineering Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering at Nihon University (Professor Ippei Hata), and the Architectural Structural Institute (Meguro City, Tokyo, President Kazuyuki Ohara). This innovative system achieves superior vibration control effects with a smaller additional mass compared to conventional TMD systems. Full-scale testing and vibration tests using building simulation models have confirmed its effectiveness in reducing seismic response and validated the accuracy of its analytical design model.

The DM-Tuned TMD system incorporates a rotational inertial mass device, which is connected in series with a spring. By utilizing this rotational inertial mass, the system enhances the tuned mass effect while requiring a significantly smaller additional mass than conventional TMDs. As a result, it offers greater efficiency in vibration control.

This device is designed to be installed at the top of a building, where the rotational inertial mass synchronizes with the building's movement to mitigate vibrations. The full-scale version of the device, which has now been commercialized, measures 2 meters in width, 2 meters in depth, and 1.5 meters in height. Its compact design allows for space-efficient installation compared to traditional systems.

On February 7th, a public experiment was held at the Environmental and Disaster Prevention Urban Research Center, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Nihon University, where approximately 40 participants, including industry professionals and general contractors, engaged in discussions and inquiries. During the test, it was verified that a single device could simultaneously control the first and second mode vibrations of the building by using a scaled-down DM Tuned Mass Damper installed in a nine-story vibration model.

Currently, preparations are underway to install the DM-tuned TMD system in existing mid-to high-rise buildings along major roads in Tokyo by 2026. Since reinforcing the building’s interior or installing braces is challenging, the system is planned to be installed on the rooftop. Moving forward, the company aims to expand the deployment of this technology, particularly for narrow-frontage mid-to-high-rise buildings in urban areas, contributing to the development of more earthquake-resilient cities.

＜Contact＞

Kawakin Core-Tech Co., Ltd.            Architecture Business Division

2-2-7 Kawaguchi, Kawaguchi City, Saitama, 332-0015

info@kawakinkk.co.jp