A Python-based platform to automate seismic design and nonlinear analysis of steel moment frames

Abstract

This paper introduces the development of an end-to-end computational platform that could automate the process of conducting seismic design, constructing nonlinear structural models, and performing response simulation (static and dynamic) of steel moment resisting frames. The seismic design module is able to iteratively generate code-conforming section sizes and detailing for beams, columns, and beam-column connections based on the relevant input design variables such as the building configuration (e.g., the numer of stories, the number of lateral-force resisting systems, and the building dimensions), loads (e.g., dead and live loads on each floor), and site conditions (mapped MCER spectral acceleration parameters). The nonlinear model generation module takes the design results as input, automates the construction of nonlinear structural models that capture the flexural strength and stiffness deterioration and performs the pushover and response time history analyses. Three illustrative examples are presented to demonstrate the reliability, accuracy, and efficiency of the developed platform. The significance of this platform is a drastic reduction in time and effort involved in conducting iterative structural designs and nonlinear analyses, both of which are necessary for performance-based seismic design. Additionally, the platform could be used to develop an extensive database of archetype steel moment frame buildings towards the development of analytics-driven design methods.