RAM SS Seismic Stability Coefficient Calculation

Hi - 

I was hoping that someone would have some further information on how RAM Frame calculates the seismic stability coefficient (theta). When I do a quick hand check of the numbers given in the report, I find that the reported thetas are significantly larger than they should be. 

I've included a couple sheets for an example. If we choose to check Level 21 for loading the X direction, these are the numbers that I'm getting when Ie = 1.5 and Cd = 5.5.

theta = 9784 * 0.81 * 1.5 / 574 / ((244.82 - 226.82) * 12) / 5.5 = 0.017

RAM reported theta = 0.064

Thanks for the help,

  • The importance factor cancels out with delta_xe.

    P 9784 k the total vertical design load at and above Level x
    delta xe 0.81 delta ye -0.29 in the elastic drift from the story displacements
    Vx 574.12 Vy -6.43 k the seismic shear force acting between Levels x and x −1
    hsx 216 in the story height below Level x (in)
    Ie 1 importance factor - always 1 (cancels with delta xe)
    Cd 5.5 cancels in theta equation, used in Theta max
    Beta 1
    Theta x 0.064 Theta y 2.043
    Theta x max 0.091 Theta y max 0.091



    Answer Verified By: Jacob Pulfer