Project Overview
At Boston University’s newly built CCDC Campus, ensuring structural stability and user comfort was a key priority in the design of a six-story building with a central monumental stairway. To mitigate vibrations caused by heavy foot traffic, a series of Tuned Mass Dampers (TMDs) were strategically installed beneath the stairway landings, providing an effective and long-term solution.
Understanding Tuned Mass Dampers
TMDs are specialized devices designed to mitigate unwanted vibrations in structures. By leveraging a secondary mass tuned to the same frequency as the vibrating structure, TMDs counteract movement by oscillating in opposition, effectively reducing vibration amplitude. This is achieved through a system of springs, masses, and dampers that absorb and dissipate kinetic energy.
The Challenge: Managing Stairway Vibrations
The stairway in the Boston University CCDC Campus featured five concrete landings, each of which was prone to vibrations from frequent pedestrian traffic. To address this challenge, five maintenance-free TMDs were installed beneath each landing, with each damper featuring a vibrating mass ranging from 750 kg to 1000 kg. These dampers were meticulously calibrated to counteract footfall-induced vibrations, ensuring a more stable and comfortable experience for users.
Implementation and Results
The installation process required precise engineering and coordination to ensure the TMDs were tuned correctly to match the specific vibration frequencies of the stairway landings. Once in place, the dampers significantly reduced vibrations, improving both safety and comfort.
This project serves as a testament to the importance of innovative engineering solutions in enhancing the usability of architectural spaces. By implementing TMDs, we successfully minimized structural vibrations, contributing to a more stable and enjoyable environment for students, faculty, and visitors at Boston University.
A Visual Look at the Project
To achieve a smooth, finished look, and thanks to the compact design of TMDs, they were covered and will remain hidden from view, ensuring that no one notices their presence while they effectively mitigate vibrations. Our TMDs lifespan ranges from 30 to 50 years without requiring inspection or maintenance.
