Nonlinear Static Large Deformation Analysis of Bare Frames Subjected to Lateral Loads

Abstract

Overall capacity of a structure depends on the strength and deformation capacities of the individual component of the structure. In order to determine capacities beyond the elastic limits some form of nonlinear analysis such as the pushover procedure is required. This procedure uses a series of sequential elastic analyses, superimposed to approximate a force-displacement capacity diagram of the overall structure. Usually this analysis is performed using FEM and that too with major assumption in defining hinge mechanisms and target displacement. In this paper, a new method for analysis nonlinear static large deformation analysis of bare frame subjected to lateral load is proposed. First we developed the method and later four frames were taken and they were pushed up to failure. Results clearly show the capability of the proposed method.