Japan Sustainable Building Database

Intermediate story seismic isolation structure

Laminated natural rubber bearings (Photograph: Ad Graphics)

The building employs an intermediate story seismic isolation structure featuring seismic isolation below floor level on the ground floor to enhance longevity and deliver building safety and integrity standards befitting an educational research facility. The seismic isolation structure is also used to realize a complex open-design structure consisting of a large open space and a number of vertical shafts within the building. Seismic isolation is provided by a semi-active isolation system consisting of laminated natural rubber isolating bearings and low-friction sliding bearings together with attenuating oil dampers (half of which are variable type), providing a high level of safety and comfort.

Cogeneration system

CGS machine room (Photograph: Ad Graphic)

The facility has a number of high thermal load centers such as the training/accommodation rooms and indoor swimming pool, and is serviced by a cogeneration system that reutilizes exhaust heat and features high-efficiency gas engines with generation efficiency of 40.5%. The cogeneration system operates primarily on electric power. Exhaust heat is used during summer in the integrated chilled/hot water system (called Gener-link) for cooling. During winter, exhaust heat is sent via a heat exchange to the hot water supply, room heating system and pool heaters. This ensures optimal overall efficiency all year round.