USE OF MODEL CALIBRATION TECHNIQUE TO DERIVE ACCURATE FRAGILITY CURVES

Abstract

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) has been used extensively for modeling of structures. However, the details and accuracy of FE models may be limited due to computational demand particularly, for problems requiring extensive iterations such as fragility analysis. Fragility analysis, defined as the conditional probability of reaching a performance limit state as a function of intensity measure, is an essential component in seismic risk analysis of building and infrastructure. Therefore, developing accurate fragility functions is critical for proper seismic risk assessment. In this research we propose a two stage framework to evaluate accurate fragility curves using nonlinear dynamic analysis without the expensive computational cost. First, we reduce the discrepancies between a detailed model and simplified model in order to reduce the computational expenses as much as possible while approximating the results of the simplified model to the detailed model. Then we calculate the fragility curves utilizing a nonlinear dynamic analysis without cumbersome run time. The framework is then applied to a four-story buckling restrained frame building to assess its feasibility.