Sustainable numerical solution for the static and free-vibration analysis of uniform and nonuniform coupled shear walls with multiple stiffening beams

Caparachin-Arroyo E.; Pinto-Cruz M.C. · Structures (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.istruc.2026.111275

Resumen

Efficient control of the key parameters governing the response of coupled shear walls can be achieved through the incorporation of stiffening beams. However, analytical solutions available in the literature have been largely restricted to the particular case of single-bay systems with a single stiffening beam of uniform properties and subjected to uniformly distributed lateral loads. These formulations typically neglect the deformation mechanism associated with the local shear of the walls and often ignore the effects induced by vertical loading. Such limitations reduce the applicability of approximate yet efficient models within engineering practice. In this context, this study introduces, for the first time, a generalized numerical formulation based on the combined application of the continuous method and the transfer matrix method for the static and dynamic analysis of stiffened coupled shear walls. The proposed methodology is applicable to systems with multiple stiffening beams, multiple segments, and variation along the height of geometric and mechanical properties, subjected to arbitrary vertical and lateral loads. The formulation explicitly incorporates the deformation mechanism associated with the local shear of the walls, as well as the effects of axial loading. A generalized sandwich-type continuous model is employed for this purpose, obtained by coupling the classical sandwich beam in series with a local shear beam. Analytical expressions for the static and dynamic transfer matrices are derived from this model, eliminating the need for matrix inversion and significantly reducing computational costs. After the boundary conditions are imposed, the transfer matrix of the complete structure allows the direct computation of displacements, floor drifts, internal forces, and vibration periods. Numerical examples performed for uniform and nonuniform coupled walls show excellent agreement between the results produced by the proposed formulation and those obtained through the finite element method, with maximum errors below 5 %, which is considered acceptable for professional practice. The results also show that vertical loading increases displacements and the moment associated with axial force while reducing the local bending moment. In addition, the use of stiffening beams significantly decreases displacements and story drifts, enhances structural performance, and contributes to sustainable design by reducing carbon dioxide emissions and the associated environmental impact.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería; Universidad Continental