An efficient analysis of continuum shear wall models

This paper formulates the stiffness matrix and a procedure for the analysis of a general class of coupled shear walls subjected to arbitrary loading a nd boundary conditions. The computed solutions for both deflections and str esses are exact in the sense that they satisfy the governing differential e quation of the continuum shear theory, as well as all boundary conditions a nd inter-element compatibility. Explicit expressions are given for the form ulation of the stiffness matrix and of the fixed-end forces for common load ing conditions. The theory is also applicable to shear walls having variabl e stiffnesses and multiple bands of opening.