Introduction ASCE/SEI 41-17—“Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings”—is the industry standard for assessing seismic performance in existing structures. Moreover, it uses performance-based design principles. Consequently, the standard defines a three-tier process: initial screening, detailed analysis (linear & nonlinear), and acceptance checks against clear performance objectives. Additionally, it covers both deficiency-based and capacity-driven approaches. Finally, […]

Introduction ProtaStructure 2026’s User-Defined Acceleration Spectra guide empowers engineers to import and manage unlimited site-specific seismic spectra, assigning distinct curves for the X, Y, and Z directions. Users can effortlessly build a spectrum library by importing data from text files or pasting from the clipboard, with automatic parsing of common delimiters. Furthermore, the Compare tool […]

Introduction ProtaStructure 2026’s Subbasement Members Design Guide provides a streamlined workflow to insert and model subbasement walls, slabs, and beams within foundation systems moreover specify foundation depth to auto-recognize members for accurate load assignment, and use the detailing menu to quickly define reinforcement, slab strips, and ties. Subbasement Walls and Subbasement Wall Height  Subbasement walls […]

Introduction The ProtaStructure Design Guide RC Pedestals for 2026 introduces a powerful new feature that simplifies the design and analysis of concrete pedestals under steel columns. Users can seamlessly insert pedestals, define their dimensions effortlessly, and integrate them into structural models for optimal design workflows. When a base plate is specified beneath the steel column, […]

Introduction The “ProtaStructure Design Guide – ProtaStructure ETABS Comparison” (March 2025) offers a thorough review of two leading structural engineering software programs: ProtaStructure and ETABS. It focuses on seismic analysis by examining a 15-story reinforced concrete building that follows ASCE 7-16 guidelines. The guide covers key topics such as structural modeling methods, seismic parameter definitions, […]