Multimode pushover analysis based on energy-equivalent SDOF systems

In this paper the extension of a recently established energy-based pushover procedure in order to include the higher mode contributions to the seismic response of structures is presented and preliminary evaluated. The steps of the proposed methodology in its new formulation are quite similar to those of the well-known Modal Pushover Analysis. However, the determination of the properties of the „modal‟ equivalent single-degree-of-freedom systems is achieved by a rationally founded energy-based concept. Firstly, the theoretical background and the assumptions of the proposed methodology are presented and briefly discussed. Secondly, the sequence of steps to be followed for its implementation along with the necessary equations is systematically presented. The accuracy of the methodology is evaluated by an extensive parametric study which shows that, in general, it provides better results compared to those produced by other similar procedures. In addition, the main shortcoming of the initial version of the methodology now seems to be mitigated to a large extent.