Reasponse-spectra method for assessing seismic resistance of structures possibilities and prospects of usage

Abstract

The issues of using the response-spectra method for calculating the seismic resistance of structures are considered. The physical meaning of the coefficients included in the normative calculation formulas of the response-spectra technique is analyzed, ways of refining these coefficients are indicated. In particular, the dependence of the peak ground acceleration on the design accelerogram period is noted. The issue of obtaining the displacement spectra on the base of the normative spectral curve is considered. It is noted that with the correct setting of the normative coefficients, calculation by the response-spectra method gives more reliable values of the calculated factors. Dynamic calculating of structures over time are only needed for substantially non-linear systems and, possibly, heavily damped systems with non-uniform damping. Single calculation of the structure according to an accelerogram only disorientate the designer. The refined version of the linear spectral technique presented in the paper should be considered as the main method for assessing the seismic resistance of buildings and structures.