Elegant tension-only seismic restraints, built to TriPyramid standards, that reduce residual drift by 70-85%.
What is a Restorative Seismic Brace (RSB)?
A tension-only RSB is an assembly of Shape Memory Alloy cables, carefully connected to a TriPyramid tension rod system. By leveraging the wonders of Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) technology, we provide energy dissipation together with a restorative force, pulling the structure toward its original geometry after a seismic event. Our Design Guide can help your engineering team specify the correct number and location for installation of RSBs. The result is reduced residual drift and faster recovery.
Shape Memory Alloy Technology
Originally developed for applications ranging from heart stents to spacecraft, Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) have the unique ability to return to their original shape after deformation. Today, that same technology is helping create a new generation of resilient, architecturally refined seismic bracing systems.
Why does it matter?
The Northridge, California earthquake in 1993 and the Christchurch, New Zealand earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 demonstrated that the economic and societal impacts of significant seismic events cannot be ignored. Buildings that meet current code requirements may still be rendered unusable or not economically viable to repair after a major seismic event.
Current trends indicate that both the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Building Seismic Safety Council (BSSC) are moving toward code requirements focused on functional recovery, ensuring buildings can be repaired and safely reoccupied without full reconstruction.
Even before functional recovery is officially mandated, RSBs allow building owners to reduce repairs, accelerate recovery and gain long-term economic benefits following seismic activity.
Sample RSB Configurations
Performance Outcomes
Compared to non-linear analysis of existing solutions for three-story, center core building model. Overall average residual drift reduced below 0.5% limit for functional recovery.
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
University of California, Berkeley – Grimes Engineering Center
Dave Burke © SOM
The Grimes Engineering Center is in the heart of the campus’s Engineering Neighborhood. In 2025, the existing Bechtel Engineering Center underwent an extensive renovation and expansion to accommodate the growing engineering student population and create a more collaborative, inclusive and innovative environment.
TriPyramid collaborated with SOM IW to design and manufacture the building’s seismic resilience system, integrating SMA technology into its lateral force-resisting system. Located around the building perimeter, the system combines structural performance with an intentional architectural expression, making the seismic technology a visible feature of the building. It is the first-ever application of SMA technology in a lateral force-resisting system for new construction.
Dave Burke © SOM