Coupled walls in earthquake-resistant buildings, modeling techniques and dynamic analysis

This investigation is part of a combined analytical and experimental program to develop design information for earthquake-resistant reinforced concrete structural wall systems. Modeling techniques developed and used for dynamic analysis of coupled wall structures are presented. Particular attention is placed on simulation of inelastic action and detailed aspects of hysteretic moment-rotation relationships. The study includes the following: Selection and design of a 20 story coupled wall structure for dynamic analysis; determination of modeling requirements and development of modeling techniques for computer analysis; modification of the computer program to incorporate improved modeling capabilities; and dynamic analysis to test the analytical model and investigate the effects of selected model features on inelastic response of coupled walls.