oq-gem

Glossary for gem taxonomy

Authors: Luke Allen, Andrew Charleson, Svetlana Brzev, and Charles Scawthorn

This online Glossary explains around 400 terms contained in the GEM Building Taxonomy v 2.0 and nearly 700 images.

The terms have been listed in alphabetical and numerical order. Text description of each term is accompanied by illustrations (photos and/or drawings) where possible.

We welcome contributions in the form of photographs or images, illustrating glossary terms. If you have any questions you can also contact us at buildingtaxonomy@globalquakemodel.org


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No lateral load-resisting system [LN]

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There is no identifiable structural system that is capable of resisting seismic loads, for example a post-and-beam structure where columns are not cantilevered and the connections between column and beam are not moment-resisting.

LN_Allen&Brzev_1

A structure without lateral load-resisting system is unstable when subjected to lateral loads, while a moment frame is able to resist seismic forces

LN_-_Charleson_1

None of these lateral load-resisting systems exist in a building classified as No Lateral Load-Resisting System

LN_Greece_McEwen_1LN_Greece_McEwen_2

Ancient Greek temple Parthenon in Athens (construction completed in 432 BC) can be classified as No Lateral Load-Resisting System, because there is no moment connection between columns and beams; the photos show the temple during the structural rehabilitation in 2007 (B. McEwen)

LN_PNH Palace A-4_Scawthorn_1

This building is a part of the Royal Palace complex in Pnom Penh, Cambodia. Its lateral load-resisting system can be characterized as No Lateral Load-Resisting System because it doesn't have any apparent lateral bracing (C. Scawthorn)