Earthquake-resistant structure: structural frame clamper system - an approach to design

摘要

A general approach is proposed for conceptually designing an earthquake-resistant structure incorporating, in the structure itself, dampers based on inelastic deformation of steel strips. The approach is developed on the basis of some standards specified in the Mexico City building code, but may be easily modified for application to any building code and any damper of the type that entails stable inelastic deformation of elements whose stiffness is well defined. A conventionally designed earthquake-resistant structure is used as a reference point; then, the damper-equipped structure is conceptually designed to satisfy the strength requirements of the conventionally designed structure, as well as having the capacity to dissipate as much energy per displacement cycle as the conventional structure. It is proposed that the damper-equipped structure should have a frame of beams and columns less stiff than that of the conventional earthquake-resistant structure which, when fitted with the dampers, will be less likely to incur structural damage under the action of earthquake-induced forces, and thus justify the incorporation of the dampers from an economic standpoint.