FM-2D/3D: GUI for the 2D and 3D simulation of steel frame buildings

Performance-based seismic analysis and assessment of steel frame buildings has become a standard practice. This requires creating nonlinear numerical models which requires knowledge, experience, and time to develop, analyze, and process the results in a meaningful way. To streamline these processes, a computer tool named Frame Modeler (FM-2D/3D) is developed. The MATLAB-based tool stands out with an intuitive graphical user-interface, generalized modelling options, open-source code on GitHub, and, most importantly, employment of state-of-the-art modelling recommendations for steel members and beam-to-column connections. The tool allows for the 2- and 3-dimensional modelling of steel buildings with moment or braced frames within the OpenSees platform using either the lumped or distributed plasticity approach. Multiple analysis procedures can be conducted including Eigenvalue, pushover, response-history, and increment dynamic analysis. Analysis data are internally<br/>processed and can be reported or visualized in several ways. This includes the history and profiles of engineering demand parameters, global building response, fragility curves, and the interactive visualization of the local member/component behaviors. FM-2D/3D is a benchmarked tool that is currently being used by researchers worldwide.