Application of flexible façade systems in reducing the lateral displacement of concrete frames subjected to seismic loads

Façade systems, as an integral part of multi-storey buildings, and as non-structural systems are susceptible to potential failure when subjected to severe environmental forces such as earthquakes, if not designed properly. In this paper an alternative method using movable façade systems as an energy absorbing device is proposed in order to decrease the amount of energy imparted to the main structure during seismic activities. Analytical investigation concerning inter-storey drift limits of main structures and seismic drift assessment methods of glazed façades will be conducted. SAP2000 program is used for the numerical analyses. A series of inelastic time history analyses are carried out to determine the behaviour and response of the proposed system in a typical concrete frame structure under two earthquake records. Application of flexible connections in façade systems can, if properly designed, reduce the inelastic deformation of the structural models in comparison to the case without flexible connections.