Applicability of Nonlinear Multiple-Degree-of-Freedom Modeling for Design

Published

September 15, 2010

Author(s)

Michael Valley, Mark Aschheim, Craig Comartin, William Holmes, Helmut Krawinkler, Mark Sinclair

Abstract

In 2008, NIST initiated Task Order 68241 entitled "Improved Nonlinear Static Seismic Analysis Procedures – Multiple-Degree-of-Freedom Modeling." The purpose of this project was to conduct further studies on multiple-degree-of-freedom effects as outlined in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) report, FEMA 440, Improvement of Nonlinear Static Seismic Analysis Procedures (FEMA, 2005). The FEMA 440 Report concluded that current nonlinear static analysis procedures, which are based on single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) models, are limited in their ability to capture the complex behavior of structures that experience multiple-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) response. It further concluded that improved nonlinear analysis techniques to more reliably address MDOF effects were needed. In response, work on this project was structured to include a detailed review of recent research on nonlinear MDOF modeling and the conduct of focused analytical studies to fill gaps in available information. This work was intended to improve nonlinear MDOF modeling for structural design practice by providing guidance on: (1) the minimum level of MDOF model sophistication necessary to make performance-based engineering decisions; (2) selection of appropriate nonlinear analysis methods; and (3) possible alternative approaches to analytical modeling.

Citation

Grant/Contract Reports (NISTGCR) - 10-917-9

Report Number

10-917-9

NIST Pub Series

Grant/Contract Reports (NISTGCR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

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Keywords

NEHRP Consultants Joint Venture, ATC, Nonlinear Static Procedure, MDOF, Earthquake Engineering

Citation

Valley, M. , Aschheim, M. , Comartin, C. , Holmes, W. , Krawinkler, H. and Sinclair, M. (2010), Applicability of Nonlinear Multiple-Degree-of-Freedom Modeling for Design, Grant/Contract Reports (NISTGCR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=915480 (Accessed October 13, 2025)