A unified simplified numerical model for large-scale regional seismic simulation of building structures

To compute seismic responses of a large number of building structures quickly in an area, a unified simplified nonlinear multi-degree-of-freedom finite element model is proposed in this study for reinforced concrete (RC) structures, including frame structures, frame-shear wall structures, and shear wall structures . Corresponding parameter determination method of the simplified model is also provided. Compared with existing models, the proposed model is more convenient to determine parameters for typical RC building structures in large-scale areas. Then, the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed model are verified by comparison between the simulation results and the corresponding experimental results for one RC frame structure and one frame-shear wall structure. Finally, the capability and practicability of the proposed model are verified by a case study of the simulation of seismic responses of over 800 RC building structures in a community. • A unified model can simulate shear, flexural, and flexural-shear coupling characteristics of structures. • The unified nonlinear FEM is suitable for RC frame structures, frame-shear wall structures, and shear wall structures. • The model parameters are estimated by basic information of structures, which is suitable for large-scale computation.