9322524 Krawinkler This research project will develop basic data needed to formalize and implement a demand/capacity based seismic design methodology that explicitly considers the inelastic response characteristics of structures. The objective is to make the design process transparent and equally applicable to the seismic evaluation of existing structures and seismic designs of new structures, using conventional structural systems as well as new structural systems, materials, and innovative energy dissipation or base isolation systems. The design objective is to provide a structure with sufficient strength, stiffness, and ductility such that the deformation demands imposed by design earthquakes do not exceed the deformation capabilities associated with design limit states (e.g. serviceability, collapse safety). It is intended to achieve a consistent level of seismic protection for structures of different configurations and structural systems, which may be located in regions of different seismicity. The proposed research is directed towards achieving this goal by focusing on the following objectives: (1) evaluate, refine, modify, and develop (if needed) the basic concepts on which a consistent and transparent seismic design methodology can be based; (2) develop a comprehensive set of information on seismic demand parameters for inelastic SDOF systems, which will form the basis for the design of MDOF structures; (3) develop the knowledge needed to modify the SDOF demand parameters in a manner that accounts for multi-mode effects present in real MDOF structures; (4) investigate the effects of ground motion characteristics for expected cumulative damage effects; and (5) formalize and test the proposed seismic design methodology in order to make it useful for the engineering profession. The information on demands and capacities created in the project will have an impact on the state of knowledge and will facilitate and accelerate the adoption of more realistic and transparent design procedures. ***
