ABSTRACT
In this paper a methodology is suggested for the modelling of the in-plane floor diaphragm flexibility of building structures, by using simplified 2-D finite elements models with the coarsest discretisation mesh possible. The discretisation simply takes into account all the connection points of the vertical structural elements on the diaphragm of each storey. To this purpose various building structures with different shapes of floor plans are analysed as suggested by E.C. 8/94. For each structure the results of the proposed simplified model are compared with the more accurate results of a proper micromodel with fine discretisation mesh, as well with the results of the well-known model of the rigid floor diaphragm. The comparative analytical study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed methodology and proves the insufficiency (in many cases) of the model of the rigid floor diaphragm.
