Simplified Dynamic Model for Post‐tensioned Cross‐laminated Timber Rocking Walls

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents a computationally efficient numerical model for predicting seismic responses of post‐tensioned cross‐laminated timber (CLT) rocking wall systems. The rocking wall is modeled as a simple linear beam element with a nonlinear rotational spring at the base. The model is primarily intended for preliminary design and assessment of multistory buildings using this particular lateral system. A method was developed to determine the nonlinear rotational spring parameters by considering the dimension of the CLT wall panel and post‐tensioned steel rods and energy dissipating devices’ contributions. The proposed model was validated by comparing the simulated results with the responses from a series of shake table tests of a full‐scale two‐story building with CLT rocking walls. The numerical results show reasonable agreement with the shake table test results considering the simplicity of the model.