By using base isolation, the structural team reduced the seismic demands, which helped them reduce member sizes and simplify connection detailing. It also allowed the project team to use Ryman Healthcare’s traditional shear walls, which have been optimized over many years to suit their developments’ needs.

SGH worked closely with the lead structural engineer and completed the following work:

• Performed nonlinear analyses of the five buildings to calculate design forces and displacements for the structures above and below the isolators

• Developed an ETABS model to evaluate the structural system above and below the isolators

• Determined the required size and stiffness properties of the isolators

• Developed a manufacturing specification used to solicit bids from isolator suppliers

• Helped review bids and select an isolation system

• Reviewed isolator submittals to compare with the project requirements

• Advised other team members, including mechanical, architectural, electrical, and fire protection about the isolated structure’s effects on their systems