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The structural analysis of multi-storey buildings can be carried out using discrete (computer-based) models or creating continuum models that lead to much simpler albeit normally approximate results. The book relies on the second approach and presents the theoretical background and the governing differential equations (for researchers) and simple closed-form solutions (for practicing structural engineers). The continuum models also help to understand how the stiffness and geometrical characteristics influence the three-dimensional behaviour of complex bracing systems. The back-of-the-envelop formulae for the maximum deflection and rotation, load shares, fundamental frequency and critical load facilitate quick global structural analysis for even large buildings. It is shown how the global critical load ratio can be used for monitoring the "health" of the structure acting as a performance indicator and "safety factor". Evaluating the results of over sixteen hundred calculations, the accuracy of the procedures is comprehensively demonstrated by comparing the discrete and continuum results. Nineteen worked examples illustrate the use of the methods, whose downloadable MathCad and Excel worksheets (www.crcpress.com/ 9780367350253) can also be used as templates for similar practical situations.
List of contents
1. Introduction 2. Individual bracing units: frames, (coupled) shear walls and cores 3. Deflection and rotation analysis of buildings under horizontal load 4. Frequency analysis of buildings 5. Stability analysis of buildings 6 .Global structural analysis 7. Accuracy Appendix: List of worksheets
About the author
Karoly Zalka spent eleven years in structural engineering practice before moving to academia lecturing on structural mechanics/analysis in Hungary. He has been involved in research throughout his career, including a ten-year period at the Building Research Establishment, UK. He has developed several hand-methods for the global structural analysis of buildings. He is currently a visiting Professor at the Technical University of Budapest. His publications include Global Structural Analysis of Buildings, also published by CRC Press.
Summary
This book relies on creating continuum models for the structural analysis of multi-storey buildings and presents the theoretical background and the governing differential equations (for researchers) and simple closed-form solutions (for practicing structural engineers).
