Response Spectrum Analysis of Adding External Elevators to Existing RC Buildings

Abstract

In contemporary society, elevators stand as indispensable facilitators, particularly for users in tall buildings, contributing significantly to convenience. Their role becomes even more crucial for individuals with disabilities, serving as a vital means of transport to enable them to partake in modern life. However, a challenge emerges in the form of buildings erected during the 1970s or 1980s, lacking initial designs of elevators. This absence of elevator well designs presents substantial issues for building users, especially residents. However, many of these buildings have not reached the end of their service life. Undertaking removal and reconstruction efforts, while a potential solution, raises serious environmental concerns. The associated carbon dioxide emissions and the environmental impact of such activities underscore the need for alternative, environmentally conscious approaches. In this context, the introduction of external elevator structures to existing buildings emerges as a meaningful and sustainable avenue for researchers to explore. The proposed solution not only addresses the practical challenges faced by residents but also aligns with broader environmental goals, contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and the preservation of existing building structures. Many researchers emphasize the critical importance of assessing structural performance under seismic loads to ensure safety. This research, centered on a typical educational RC frame structure at Kyungpook National University, employs the RSA (Response Spectrum Analysis) method to comprehensively evaluate seismic performance. This research specifically compares analytical results using RSA for the RC frame with and without the external elevator structure (RCE and RC, respectively).