Performance-based design of steel frames with self-centering modular panel

Abstract

The self-centering modular panel (SCMP) is an emerging seismic resilient lateral force-resisting system. This paper intends to develop a performance-based design (PBD) method for steel buildings equipped with the SCMPs based on the concept of direct displacement-based design methodology. The theoretical hysteretic model of the SCMP consisting of the post-tensioned frame (PTF) and four replaceable hysteretic dampers (RHD) is proposed and validated in this paper. Based on the proposed theoretical hysteretic model, the equation for the equivalent damping ratio of the steel buildings with SCMP is developed and the PBD method is proposed. The 3-story and 6-story steel frames equipped with the emerging SCMP are established through the developed PBD procedure. Static analyses were performed to investigate the nonlinear responses of the established buildings. Twenty ground sequences were chosen and scaled to evaluate the seismic responses of the designed steel frames subjected to different seismic intensity levels through nonlinear dynamic analyses. The results of the research show that steel structures equipped with SCMPs established through the developed PBD procedure can display the expected hysteretic behavior and performance under earthquakes. The designed buildings can achieve excellent post-earthquake recoverability by keeping the residual displacement in each story less than 0.5% even under earthquakes with MCE intensity.