Unification of existing frame analogies for coupled shear/core wall analysis

Abstract

In order to overcome the artificial flexure problem with the conventional wide column frame analogy, several alternative frame analogies have been developed by Stafford Smith et al. and by Kwan. The framework modules developed by Stafford Smith et al. are incorporated with rotational d.o.f. for direct connection with the coupling beams, while the solid wall element developed by Kwan has no rotational d.o.f. In the present study, it is revealed that the framework modules should really be used only in their respective forms with no rotational d.o.f. and that the various framework modules are actually equivalent to each other. Comparing the stiffness matrix of the framework modules to that of Kwan's solid wall element, it is further found that the framework modules are in fact also equivalent to Kwan's solid wall element. Hence the various alternative frame analogies can be unified into one frame method and their characteristics as observed by different researchers can all be drawn together. © 1994.