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Selecting and checking the desired mechanism

Apply capacity-design reasoning to frames, walls and mixed systems.

Module 7: Capacity designLesson 15/2018 min
Expert/source verification requiredEdition-dependent or normative details must be confirmed against the adopted standard and National Annex before project use.
Strong-column/weak-beamShear protectionMechanism selectionSystem compatibility

Learning objectives

In this lesson

  • Mechanism selection is a building-level task.
  • Protect joints, columns and shear consistently.

Engineering explanation

For a multi-storey RC frame, distributed beam yielding is generally preferable to a storey mechanism dominated by column hinges. Sketch candidate beam-end hinges, review base regions and identify joints, columns and shear modes to protect. Then test whether wall interaction, vertical irregularity or foundation response could redirect the mechanism. Numerical hierarchy checks require the exact applicable provisions; the lesson emphasizes the engineering reasoning that precedes them.

Key takeaways

What to carry forward

  • Mechanism selection is a building-level task.
  • Protect joints, columns and shear consistently.
  • Recheck mechanisms when interactions change.
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