ABSTRACT
The design base shear for a specified hazard, which is generally given as design spectrum in the codes, is calculated by equating the work needed to push the structure monotonically up to the target drift to the energy required by an equivalent EP-SDOF to achieve the same state (Fig. 1). Also, a new distribution of lateral design forces is used, which is based on relative distribution of maximum story shears consistent with inelastic dynamic response results. Plastic design is then performed to detail the frame members and connections in order to achieve the intended yield mechanism and behavior. Thus, determination of design base shear, lateral force distribution, and plastic design are three main components of the PBPD method.
