Methods to Reproduce In-Plane Deformability of Orthotropic Floors in the Finite Element Models of Buildings

In the modelling of reinforced concrete (RC) buildings, rigid diaphragm hypothesis to represent in-plane behavior floors was and still is very commonly adopted because its simplicity computational cheapness. However, since excessive floor deformability can cause a different redistribution lateral forces on vertical resisting elements, it may be necessary consider deformability. This paper investigates classical yet intriguing question modeling orthotropic RC systems endowed with lightening elements by means uniform slab in order describe accurately building response under seismic loads. The simplified method, engineers based equivalence between transverse stiffness real those slab, presented. A case study which this method used also provided. Then, an advanced finite element (FE)-based determine elastic properties equivalent homogenized proposed. novel aspect that takes into account interaction shell frame 3D FE model building. Based results obtained from application study, discussion adequacy