33.16. Use of Design Spectrum in Performance-Based Design

Try these first

1. 1.

   What are the three levels of performance objectives in seismic design?

   Hint

   Think about the goals for structure safety during earthquakes.

2. 2.

   What does the demand-capacity ratio compare?

   Hint

   Remember the two terms being compared.

3. 3.

   What are the performance objectives in seismic design?

   • Structural resilience
   • Operational
   • life safety
   • collapse prevention
   • Aesthetic design

   Hint

   Focus on the different levels of safety expected during seismic events.

4. 4.

   True or False: A demand-capacity ratio greater than 1 indicates that a structure is likely to perform safely during an earthquake.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember what a high DCR indicates about structural performance.

5. 5.

   You are tasked with designing a new mixed-use building in a seismic zone. Given that your goal is life safety, outline the key design strategies you would implement to meet this objective.

   Hint

   Consider the main objectives of life safety in your design choices.

6. 6.

   Evaluate a scenario where a structure shows a demand-capacity ratio of 0.8. Discuss what this indicates and how you would advise modifications.

   Hint

   Think about what a low DCR means regarding structural integrity.