Numerical Retrofit Study of Light-Frame Wood Buildings Using Shape Memory Alloy Devices as Seismic Response Modification Devices

Abstract

Woodframe buildings have historically performed well during earthquakes primarily because of their high strength/stiffness to weight ratio. Even still, these structures possess the potential for significant damage and even collapse when exposed to very large earthquakes. New design techniques and advanced technologies can provide an alternative for improved building performance. The use of dampers and other seismic response modification devices is one such method being explored in earthquake engineering. In this paper, shape memory alloy (SMA) devices are investigated for the response modification of light-frame wood buildings during strong earthquakes. A numerical model for a suite of SMA wood shearwalls is developed based on existing data. The numerical models of the shearwalls are examined using incremental dynamic analysis at the single wall level. Design charts are developed for the shearwall models for a range of seismic weights and targeted performance levels. The wall database is then used to demonstrate retrofit of a four-story apartment building. The interstory drift was reduced by over 55% when SMA devices are used for response modification of the four-story apartment building.