16.13.2. Effects and Modeling

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define torsional motion.

   Hint

   Think about how forces might act on a building.

2. 2.

   What is a degree of freedom?

   Hint

   Consider how many ways a single floor can move.

3. 3.

   What is torsional motion?

   • A twisting motion of a structure.
   • A vertical movement.
   • A horizontal shift.

   Hint

   Think about how the structure reacts when forces are applied unevenly.

4. 4.

   True or False: The center of mass and center of stiffness often align perfectly in all buildings.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how shapes influence the distribution of weight.

5. 5.

   Consider a rectangular building that is asymmetrical along one axis. Calculate the expected torsional response if the center of mass is 2 meters from the center of stiffness. Assume the torsional spring constant to be known.

   Hint

   Understand how to relate torque to angular displacement.

6. 6.

   Design a hypothetical building with noted dimensions and mass distribution such that it minimizes torsional effects. Present calculations and justify design choices.

   Hint

   Think about structural layout and materials used.