Observations on the Reliability of Alternative Multiple-Mode Pushover Analysis Methods

Abstract

Although multiple-mode pushover analysis methods have been proposed for general use in the seismic analysis of moment-resisting frames, difficulties have been encountered in their implementation with specific structures. Two alternative multiple mode methods were developed to overcome these difficulties. Estimates of four response quantities determined with the alternative methods are compared herein for a set of five buildings subjected to suites of scaled ground motions. The uneven accuracy of the estimates, relative to the range of values determined by nonlinear dynamic analysis, suggests that results obtained by both alternative methods should be regarded with caution, until such time that the scope of applicability of the methods has been clearly established.