SECOND-ORDER ELASTIC-PLASTIC ANALYSIS OF MULTISTORY BUILDING FRAMES BY MARCHING TECHNIQUE.

Previously described algorithms are combined into an efficient computer program for conducting the elastic-plastic analysis of multistory building frames by marching technique. With this program, the response of a multistory building frame, subjected to uniform loads on the beams and lateral loads at the floor levels, may be traced from the service load condition to proportionate overloads until collapse through sequence of formation of plastic hinges. Because beam spans are not divided into elements in the analysis, plastic hinges are assumed to remain at the same locations once they are installed on them. Consequently, moments in beams may later exceed slightly the plastic moment capacity. It is believed that the algorithm is useful to form a basis for further investigations.