Development of a Numerical Model to Consider the Foundation Flexibility Effects in CLT Rocking Walls

Abstract

This work developed a numerical model to consider the effects of foundation flexibility in cross laminated timber rocking wall structures. The model was validated against the test results of a quasi-static cyclic and dynamic tests. In both tests, the foundation behaved as a flexible member with significant yielding. A multi-spring model was used in the study and two different approaches for solid and steel section beam foundations were employed to calculate the axial stiffness of contact springs. The proposed techniques were found to be not only able to consider the foundation flexibility but to also omit the need to use empirical relationships or calibration with experiments to calculate plastic hinge length to be used for calculation of axial stiffness for the base springs. Following the validation of the numerical model, a parametric study was performed to study the effects of foundation flexibility on the shear-drift response of rocking wall structures.