Plastic design of eccentrically braced frames with shear panels

This paper introduces a new earthquake-resistant building design featuring eccentrically braced frames with steel wall shear panels. It also proposes closed-form expressions for analysis and extension of the existing failure mode control design method for the new structural system. Closed-form equations for internal forces were obtained, and probable failure mechanisms and corresponding lateral load multipliers for secondary effects were identified. Selection of member profiles was completed by the mechanism equilibrium curve concept. Pushover modelling was then performed with plastic hinge distribution corresponding to failure mechanisms. Only small differences were found between the analytical and modelled values of lateral force multipliers, meaning that the closed-form equations are a valid alternative approach for plastic analysis and design of eccentrically braced frames with shear panels.