Target Displacement Calculation for Nonlinear Pushover Analysis (EC8 Annex B)

This document explains the process of target displacement calculation for nonlinear pushover analysis based on EC8 Annex B. Target displacement, which represents the expected lateral movement of a structure during a seismic event, is crucial for evaluating structural performance. The calculation is verified with hand calculations to ensure compliance and accuracy with EC8 standards, providing engineers with confidence in their designs.

Steps in Target Displacement Calculation

The calculation process involves several key steps:

1. Establishing Structural Properties
   Define the structure’s stiffness, mass, and damping characteristics. Accurate modeling of these properties is essential to predict behavior under seismic loads.

2. Seismic Demand Calculation
   Use EC8 parameters to determine ground motion and spectral demands, accounting for site-specific seismic conditions.

3. Nonlinear Pushover Analysis
   Perform a nonlinear static pushover analysis by applying incremental lateral loads to assess the structure’s capacity to resist seismic forces.

4. Target Displacement Computation
   Apply EC8 Annex B equations to compute the target displacement. Consider factors such as spectral acceleration, structural period, and damping.

5. Verification
   Compare results with hand calculations to confirm compliance and ensure accuracy in meeting EC8 provisions.

Real-World Applications

ProtaStructure streamlines nonlinear pushover analysis, making it easier for engineers to comply with EC8 Annex B requirements:

• Explore Real Projects: Visit our Projects Gallery to see ProtaStructure used in real-world seismic designs.
• Customer Success Stories: Learn how engineers apply ProtaStructure for advanced seismic analyses by reading our customer success stories.

Conclusion

Accurate target displacement calculation is essential for understanding and improving structural behavior during seismic events. ProtaStructure automates this process, ensuring precision and compliance with EC8 Annex B, while empowering engineers to design safer, more resilient structures.