This paper presents the results of a preliminary numerical investigation into the interaction between precast concrete cladding systems and moment resisting frames. Macro-scale models of cladding systems are implemented in existing lumped plasticity models for moment resisting frames. Different failure mechanisms and various configurations are considered in order to show the effect of the entire cladding system upon a structure's seismic behavior. Several parameters are varied in order to establish their associated influence on the overall structural response. Results show that it is clearly more advantageous to have a failure mechanism governed by the connection than one governed by either the panel or the frame. An experimental program is now underway building on what has been learnt from the parametric investigation. The authors intend to continue the research to successively develop improved or innovative low-damage cladding-moment resisting frame systems. They also aim to produce simple design tools that provide easy inclusion of the seismic effects of cladding-frame interaction.
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