Analysis of Tall Buildings Using Member Groups

An approximate three-dimensional method is presented for static and dynamic lateral-load analysis of tall reinforced concrete buildings. Input preparation and computer expense are variable relative to the detail and accuracy required. Although only selected floors are described, the mathematical model is a constrained counterpart of a corresponding detailed model. Arrangements of coupled and interconnected shear walls combined with frames are analyzed. Flexural and shear strains of beams, slabs, columns, and walls and axial strains of columns and walls are treated directly. For a 43-story building, the two approximate analyses presented cost approximately one-quarter and one-third of the detailed analysis. Compared to the detailed solution, the fundamental modes and several subsequent natural modes and periods were very accurate.