Estimation of maximum displacement response of reinforced concrete structures based on energy input rate spectrum

An energy input rate was defined as the work done to the system averaged during the equivalent period of vibration. The energy input rates calculated for the inelastic systems with a hysteresis rule of reinforced concrete structure corresponded to those of the equivalent linear systems. A method of estimating the maximum displacement response of the inelastic system was presented using the defined energy input rates. The response could be estimated fairly as an elongation of equivalent period of vibration from the energy input rate spectra of the equivalent linear system and the hysteretic energy absorption capacity of the system. The input energy response spectra could roughly be related to the total energy input and the duration of the earthquake.