A new methodology for seismic design is proposed based on structural optimization with performance-based constraints. Performance-based criteria are introduced for the seismic design of new buildings. These criteria are derived from the National Guidelines for Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings (Reference [19], Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 'NHERP Guidelines for seismic rehabilitation of buildings', Report Nos 273 and 274, Washington, DC, 1997) for retroÿtting existing structures. The proposed design methodology takes into account the non-linear behaviour of the structure. The goal is to incorporate in the design the actual performance levels of the structure, i.e. how much reserve capacity the structure has in an earthquake of a given magnitude. The optimal design of the structure minimizes the structural cost subjected to performance constraints on plastic rotations of beams and columns, as well as behavioural constraints for reinforced concrete frames. Uncertainties in the structural period and in the earthquake excitation are taken into account using convex models. The optimization routine incorporates a non-linear analysis program and the procedure is automated. The proposed methodology leads to a structural design for which the levels of reliability (performance levels) are assumed to be quantiÿable. Furthermore, the entire behaviour of the structure well into the non-linear range is investigated in the design process.

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