Earthquake-Ready Venues for 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics

THE ROOFS OF two new 2020 Olympic venues under construction in Tokyo are being fitted with innovate features to help reduce and spread the shock from an earthquake.

Bridgestone Corporation supplied its seismic isolation bearings for the two permanent Olympic venues. Normally fitted at ground level, seismic isolation bearings are flexible structural supports that isolate the structure above to help reduce the spread of seismic shock and decrease the chance of damage in the event of an earthquake. These bearings range in size between 600mm and 1800mm diameters.

Roof seismic isolation structure
The two new venues, which are set to be completed in 2019, feature a roof seismic isolation structure. Installing the bearings beneath the roof instead of under the foundation of the venue helps lower the burden placed on the roof’s structural support elements. This type of installation is often used in hall- or dome-shaped facilities with large, open spaces such as sporting arenas.

Tomohiro Kusano, Vice President and Senior Officer at Bridgestone Corporation, said: “As we prepare to welcome the world to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in our hometown, we are exploring all opportunities in which our innovative products and solutions can enhance and support the way that athletes, visitors and guests in Tokyo move, live, work and play. Our seismic isolation bearings will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors to these two much-anticipated venues during Tokyo 2020 and for many years to come.”

Bridgestone has been developing and manufacturing its seismic isolation technology in Japan since 1984. Today, the company’s seismic isolation bearings are used in various facilities in Japan and around the world, including historic landmarks such as Tokyo Station and Los Angeles City Hall, as well as disaster preparedness facilities, government buildings, hospitals, commercial facilities, residential apartment complexes, and more.

After the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tokyo 2020, the Bridgestone seismic isolation bearings installed at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre and Ariake Arena will continue to contribute to the safety of both venues as they host domestic and international events and serve as public recreation areas and cultural centers for years to come.