Higher mode effects in frame pin‐supported wall structure by using a distributed parameter model

Frame pin‐supported wall structure is a kind of rocking structure, which releases constraints at the bottom of the wall. The wall is affiliated to the frame and can rotate around the hinge. Previous studies have investigated seismic performance (such as deformation pattern and plastic hinge distribution) of frame pin‐supported wall structure. Strength demand of this system was investigated through static pushover analysis. However, dynamic characteristics, especially higher mode effects, remain to be quantified. As demonstrated in several researches, higher mode effects have non‐negligible effects on seismic response. For this purpose, a distributed model for analyzing higher mode effects in frame pin‐supported wall structure was proposed, where the pin‐supported wall and the frame were simplified as a bending beam and a shear beam, respectively. The model was solved by differential equations derived from equilibrium and compatibility. Displacement and inner force distribution of frame pin‐supported wall structure in higher modes were quantified according to the model. Influence of critical parameters, such as wall stiffness and structure period, was assessed on higher mode effects. It was demonstrated that response in higher modes cannot be neglected in the design of frame pin‐supported wall structure. Capacity design based on the fundamental mode is not conservative, especially in the wall. Furthermore, pin‐supported walls tend to force the frame to vibrate in the rocking mode and suppress higher mode effects in the frame. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.