Bridgestone Group’s Seismic Isolation Technology Used in Two New Permanent Stadiums for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games
The Bridgestone Corporation (Bridgestone) is the only global Olympic and Paralympic Partner with global headquarters in Tokyo. Bridgestone recently announced that it will provide seismic isolation bearings for two new permanent competition venues for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As a world-renowned brand, Bridgestone was founded in Japan and has a history of nearly 90 years. Bridgestone is proud to announce that it will provide shockproof technology for Tokyo Aquatics Center and Ariake Arena. For the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tokyo Aquatics Center will host swimming, diving and artistic swimming competitions, and Ariake Arena will host volleyball and wheelchair basketball competitions.
Seismic isolation bearings are flexible structural supports that isolate buildings from the ground to attenuate the shock of seismic waves, thereby reducing the chance of damage in an earthquake. These bearings are available in diameters between 600 mm and 1800 mm. Both of these new venues, which are expected to be completed in 2019, will feature a roof-isolation structure*1 where bearings will be installed under the roof rather than under the venue’s foundation, helping to reduce stress on the roof’s building supports. This type of installation is often used in lobbies or dome-style facilities in large open spaces such as sports fields.
“Bridgestone has been researching seismic isolation technology for decades. We are exploring every opportunity where we can use our innovative products and solutions to improve and Supporting the way athletes and guests visiting Tokyo travel, live, work and play as they prepare to welcome the world to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Bridgestone’s hometown. Our seismic isolation bearings will help Ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for visitors to these two high-profile venues during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games and in the future.”
Since 1984, Bridgestone has been developing vibration isolation technology and manufacturing vibration isolation products in Japan. Today, Bridgestone’s seismic isolation bearings are widely 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 prevention facilities, government buildings, hospitals, commercial Facilities, residential apartment buildings, etc.
Bridgestone isolation bearings installed at Tokyo Aquatics Center and Ariake Gymnasium will continue to provide safety for both venues after the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. At that time, the two venues will continue to host domestic and international competitions in Japan and become public entertainment and leisure venues and cultural centers. Bridgestone will provide premium technology and mobility solutions in support of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and its continuation in Japan, more information will be announced in the coming weeks.
Simulation rendering of Tokyo Aquatic Center*2
(as of January 2019)
[Delivered vibration isolation bearings]
– Facilities: Tokyo Aquatic Center
– Type: Natural Rubber Bearings (8 Components)
