| Abstract: | An optimal drift design model for a linear multi‐story building structure under dynamic lateral forces is presented. The drift design model is formulated into a minimum weight design problem subjected to constraints on stresses, the displacement at the top of a building, and inter‐story drift. The optimal drift design model consists of three main components: an optimizer, a response spectrum analysis module, and a sensitivity analysis module. Using a small example, the validation of the proposed model has been tested by a comparison of optimal solutions. Then, the performance of the optimal drift design model is demonstrated by application to three steel frame structures including a 40‐story building. Various structural responses including lateral displacement and inter‐story drift distributions along the height of the structure at the initial and final design stages are presented in figures and tables. Time‐consuming trial‐and‐error processes related to drift control of a tall building subjected to lateral loads is avoided by the proposed optimal drift design method. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
