Approximate Methods in Structural Seismic Design

This book examines the recent developments in computerized structural analysis and finite element analysis to re-appraise existing approximate techniques and to define their scope and limits more accurately. The book proposes new techniques and provides many numerical examples and comparisons with 'accurate' methods. Preface. Multi-storey building frames. Structural walls. Dual systems (structural walls and frames). Space structures. Pile foundations and retaining walls. Seismic design - basic concepts - approximate methods. Evaluation of existing buildings for seismic hazard. Postscript. Appendix A1: structural dynamics - main formulae. Appendix A2: techniques for finite elements computations. Appendix A3: methods of quantifying the structural rigidity. Appendix A4: glossary of earthquake engineering terms. Index.