Classification Methodology for Coupled Shear Walls

Abstract

This paper presents guidelines for classification of ductile coupled shear walls (CSWs). It includes two parts: the evaluation of the degree of coupling (DC) between the walls and the coupling beams, and the classification of CSWs. In present practice, DC is defined as the percentage of the base overturning moment carried by the axial tension and compression forces resulting from shears in the coupling beams. The evaluation of DC requires a structural analysis of CSW, which presents serious shortcomings during the preliminary proportioning process. A simple method is proposed in this paper for the evaluation of DC without need for structural analyses. A classification method based on the dynamic properties of CSWs is also proposed. This allows the classification of CSWs into one of the following three categories: a series of linked isolated walls, CSWs, and walls with openings (pierced walls). Finally, numerical examples demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methods. This paper is thought to be very useful for the practicing engineer.