Cantilever beam analogy for modal analysis of rocking core-moment frames

Unlike conventional seismic resisting systems, rocking core-moment frame (RCMF) combinations as low-damage assemblies are being developed to mitigate, or even eliminate structural damage and residual deformations following a severe earthquake. Despite extensive studies on the performance of specific rocking cores, dynamic characteristics and strength demands of a generic RCMF have not been addressed. By utilizing cantilever beam analogy, the current article proposes a modal analysis method to formulate RCMF demands. The proposed model and obtained analytical charts provide a manual method for rapid study and preliminary design of low- to mid-rise RCMFs with relatively uniform properties over the height. An extensive parametric study investigates the effects of rocking core base-fixity and frame-to-core stiffness on demand values. An independent computer analysis verifies the validity and accuracy of the proposed formulas. Findings show significant higher-mode effects in several RCMF combinations.