Abstract

A new simplified skyscraper analysis model (SSAM) was developed and implemented in a spreadsheet to be used for preliminary skyscraper design and teaching purposes. The SSAM predicts linear and nonlinear response to gravity, wind, and seismic loading of "modern" skyscrapers which involve a core, megacolumns, outrigger trusses, belt trusses, and diagonals. The SSAM may be classified as a discrete method that constructs a reduced system stiffness matrix involving selected degrees of freedom (DOF's). The steps in the SSAM consist of: 1) determination of megacolumn areas, 2) construction of stiffness matrix, 3) calculation of lateral forces and displacements, and 4) calculation of stresses. Seven configurations of a generic skyscraper were used to compare the accuracy of the SSAM against a space frame finite element model. The SSAM was able to predict the existence of points of contraflexure in the deflected shape which are known to exist in modern skyscrapers. The accuracy of the SSAM was found to be very good for displacements (translations and rotations), and reasonably good for stress in configurations that exclude diagonals. The speed of execution, data preparation, data extraction, and optimization were found to be much faster with the SSAM than with general space frame finite element programs.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology; Civil and Environmental Engineering

Rights

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