Earthquake-Resistant Design

Seismic Resistance (내진): Literally means withstanding vibrations. This can be achieved by thickening concrete or reinforcing it with densely packed rebar to enhance durability. Existing buildings can also be retrofitted for seismic resistance by adding diagonal external columns. Seismic Damping (제진): Absorbing vibrations. This involves installing devices like dampers (similar principle to car shock absorbers) to absorb impact. An upgraded version of this design, like in Taipei 101, uses a counterweight and dampers that work together. The counterweight absorbs the energy of the building's sway, allowing for a design that intentionally moves. Seismic Isolation (면진): Preventing direct transmission of vibrations. This is done by installing special flooring materials, such as rubber pads, at the foundation level during construction. Seismic Control (차진): A theoretical method of completely suspending a structure in the air. This has not been practically realized.