How the Worlds Biggest Pendulum Saves a Skyscraper from Earthquakes
Taipei 101 is a landmark skyscraper in Taipei, Taiwan. Standing at 509 meters tall, it was the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010. One of the most unique features of Taipei 101 is its massive pendulum, located on the 87th floor.
The pendulum, known as the “Damper Baby,” is designed to counter the effects of strong winds on the building. It consists of a 730-ton metal ball suspended by a tuned mass damper, which acts as a counterbalance to the building’s movements.
The pendulum was designed by C.Y. Lee, the architect of Taipei 101. He drew inspiration from ancient Chinese architecture, where heavy objects were used as counterweights to prevent buildings from collapsing. Lee also incorporated the principles of the Foucault pendulum, which is a type of pendulum that swings in a fixed plane due to the Earth’s rotation.
The pendulum inside Taipei 101 is the largest and heaviest of its kind in the world. It measures 6.3 meters in diameter, weighs 660 tons and is suspended by a steel cable that is 28 meters long. The ball is coated in a special layer of polyurethane to reduce wind resistance and noise.
The pendulum is not visible to the public, as it is enclosed within the building. However, visitors can see it in action through a glass window on the 87th floor. During strong winds, the pendulum can swing up to 1.5 meters in either direction, counteracting the building’s movements and keeping it stable.
In addition to its functional purposes, the pendulum inside Taipei 101 is also a sight to behold. It has become a symbol of the building and a popular attraction for visitors. It is also a reminder of the ingenuity and innovation that went into the design and construction of Taipei 101.
Overall, the pendulum inside Taipei 101 is a unique and impressive feat of engineering. It serves a crucial role in keeping the building stable during strong winds, while also adding to its aesthetic appeal. It is a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the architects and engineers who designed and built Taipei 101.
