Simplified force-based seismic design procedure for linked column frame system

Abstract

Dual structural systems with structural fuse such as linked column frame system (LCF) have two main performances, including the resistance to lateral seismic loads and the proper function of structural fuse to control deformation of the other members to remain in elastic phase. The achievement of these two functions is necessary for appropriate seismic design of these systems. Undoubtedly, despite the practical complexity, displacement-based seismic design methods are generally the best method for this purpose. In contrast, conventional force-based methods are relatively simple, but it cannot easily guarantee the desired performance. In this paper, a simplified force-based seismic design method is presented for linked column frame system based on parametric studies on different structures, which are designed with displacement-based method. In addition to simplicity, the proposed method has an appropriate accuracy in terms of achieving the performance objectives. For the parametric study, 18 prototype structures with various relative lateral stiffness of moment frame and linked column system are designed with the displacement-based method. Based on the results of the structures designed with desirable performance, the criteria are proposed for the force-based design method. Based on evaluating results, the structures designed by the proposed simplified force-based method properly reached the performance objectives.