CivE 678
Behavior and Design of Steel Seismic Force Resisting Systems
Description
This graduate-level course provides a comprehensive foundation in the seismic analysis and design of steel structures. Students will explore fundamental earthquake engineering concepts, beginning with an introduction to seismology, structural dynamics, and modal analysis. The curriculum critically examines structural failures observed in historical earthquake events to contextualize modern design philosophies.Core topics include the evaluation of seismic loading and associated requirements under the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC), alongside the strict application of capacity design principles. The course delivers in-depth coverage of the analysis and design of various steel seismic force-resisting systems. Design requirements are taught in accordance with the current Canadian steel design standard (CSA S16) as well as the AISC Seismic Provisions (AISC 341). To bridge the gap between theory, research, and practice, contemporary research studies supporting current seismic guidelines are highlighted, and the concepts for each seismic force-resisting system are reinforced through practical, real-world design examples.
Learning Outcomes
- Apply seismic hazard analysis.- Compute seismic loads on building structures using static and dynamic procedures in accordance with the National Building Code of Canada.
- Identify and describe seismic load paths in steel seismic force resisting systems.
- Identify the behaviour and governing failure modes of steel seismic force resisting systems and their connections.
- Analyze steel seismic force resisting systems under gravity and seismic loads.
- Design the members and connections of steel seismic force resisting systems in accordance with the capacity design principles prescribed by the Canadian steel design standard.
- Analyze steel seismic force resisting systems using nonlinear static procedure.
- Apply the principals of performance-based design.
| Lecture | Seminar | Lab | Credits | Total AU |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 0/1 | 0/1 | 3 | 37.8 |
| M % | NS % | CS % | ES % | ED % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
None defined
None defined
Undergraduate Program(s)
Sections & Respective Instructors
| A1 - 2026/2027 - Winter - Ali Imanpour |
| A1 - 2024/2025 - Winter - Ali Imanpour |
| B3 - 2021/2022 - Winter - Ali Imanpour |
| B1 - 2019/2020 - Winter - Ali Imanpour |