Tokyo Skytree Engineering – Earthquake & Wind Design

Part broadcasting mast, part public observatory, the Skytree fuses tradition and tech. Its shimbashira-inspired central core and steel lattice reduce sway without adding excessive mass.

Core Concepts

1. Tripod base transitions to circular cross-section aloft.
2. Central core (shimbashira) decouples from the outer frame.
3. Tuned mass + oil dampers absorb quake and wind energy.
4. Hexagonal lattice improves stiffness-to-weight.

The design nods to pagoda resilience: flexible, not brittle.

Floors & Loads

  350 m: Tembo Deck  
  450 m: Tembo Galleria  
  Above: antennas, maintenance

Seismic Systems (How It Survives Quakes)

• Central core + outer frame move slightly out of phase to dissipate energy.
• Oil dampers and tuned mass components reduce amplitude.
• Flexible connections prevent brittle failures.

Wind Science & Aerodynamics

• Faceted profile breaks up vortices and reduces crosswind effects.
• Diagrid elements optimize load paths.
• Catwalks allow inspection without heavy cranes.

Maintenance & Inspection

• Catwalks and access points at intervals.
• Regular repainting/coating cycles for corrosion protection.
• Glass assemblies designed for replaceability.