Structural Engineers Association of California (SEAOC)
Abstract
This paper presents an accurate, simple and computationally efficient method called the beam-truss model (BTM), for the computational seismic performance assessment and design of reinforced concrete (RC) structural wall buildings. The BTM has been extensively validated through a number of prior studies, and its capability to enable the accurate simulation of planar and flanged walls, coupled walls and entire building systems, has been demonstrated. A recent implementation of the BTM as a four-node shell macroelement substantially facilitates the definition and post-processing of analysis. The method is currently used for transforming the modeling and seismic performance evaluation of existing RC walls, enabling the formulation and use of performance acceptance criteria based on local material damage states. Furthermore, the BTM enables the fully nonlinear static and dynamic analysis of entire buildings including three-dimensional ground motions improving substantially the predicting capabilities of nonlinear analysis practice for performance-based seismic design (PBSD) and assessment.Postprint (published version
