Multiple‐support response spectrum analysis using load‐dependent Ritz vectors

Load‐dependent Ritz (LDR) vectors are used in conjunction with the multiple‐support response spectrum (MSRS) combination rule for analysis of structures subjected to spatially varying earthquake ground motions. The LDR vector approach for MSRS analysis is motivated by the fact that LDR vectors in general are more accurate and computationally simpler than eigenvectors in mode superposition analysis, and because many researchers and engineers are using LDR vectors in linear structural dynamic analysis. Mode truncation rules for the original MSRS method are modified to apply to LDR vectors. Two methods for selecting LDR vectors for multicomponent MSRS analysis are introduced. Idealized models of two real bridges with differing structural characteristics are used to investigate the accuracy and efficiency of the two LDR‐MSRS methods in comparison with results obtained by the original MSRS method as well as an extended version that accounts for the static contribution of truncated modes. The results show that the LDR‐MSRS method is generally more accurate than the original MSRS method and at least as accurate as the extended MSRS method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.