“…These design force levels are dependent on several design parameters related to building and diaphragm geometry, as well as lateral force-resisting system characteristics. In general, the diaphragm forces that meet the performance targets require an increase over current diaphragm design force levels [4], and are Research motivated by failures of precast diaphragms in past earthquakes [17] has indicated that: (i) diaphragm design forces may significantly underestimate the inertial forces that develop in the floor system during strong earthquakes [18] because of differences in the importance of higher modes during inelastic structural response [19]; (ii) non-ductile load paths may be present [20]; (iii) diaphragms possess complicated internal force paths [21] leading to combined tension-shear actions on individual diaphragm connectors [22]; (iv) inelastic demands can concentrate at certain key joints [23]; (v) current precast diaphragm reinforcement may not possess sufficient inelastic deformation capacity [10,11] for these demands; and, (vi) diaphragm flexibility can lead to excessive drifts of gravity system columns [24]. The new diaphragm design methodology [1,2,4,5] attempts to address these current shortcomings comprehensively.…”