Title: Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Heavy Timber Frame Structures Including Passive Damping Devices Abstract approved:

Engineering analysis of heavy timber structures under dynamic loads is generally lacking. Some literature suggests that heavy timber structures are stiffer than expected, but popular engineering opinion is to the contrary. In addition, prior research has shown that passive friction dampers can be used in timber structures for the intended purpose of increasing energy dissipation under seismic loadings. This study was conducted based on the hypothesis that heavy timber structures require bracing for seismic design and further that heavy timber performance under seismic loads will benefit from the addition of passive dampers. A computational study was designed to assess the performance of a two-dimensional model heavy timber structure when it is subjected to a seismic ground motion. Five building systems were included in the investigation; all were two story, single bay timber frames with 1-percent inherent material damping. The frames were differentiated by connection characteristics, the presence or absence of bracing, and the presence o