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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Category: terms
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The structural material is concrete, but it is not known if the concrete is reinforced or unreinforced.

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Hits: 1330

This is the best estimate of construction date if it is not known precisely. E.g. the construction likely took place between 1930 and 1940, so the year entered is 1935.

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Hits: 374

Structural steel members are welded together. This usually only applies to regular-weight steel members.

Welded connection (A. Charleson)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Welded connection of steel brace to gusset plate, New Zealand (A. Charleson)

WEL_USA_Brzev_1

 

WEL_USA_Brzev_2

 

Welded steel brace connection, USA (S. Brzev)

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Hits: 290

The building footprint is approximately triangular in shape, or a tapered wedge shape, and it has an open internal courtyard (Δ).

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Hits: 1177

Number of storeys or floors above ground, including the ground floor and floors above. Also includes storage and mechanical plant levels only if these cover over 50% of the plan area, but does not include basements below ground. If the building is stepped in height, then record the number of storeys of the highest part.

The number of storeys above ground can be recorded as an exact number, or as a range, or as an approximate number if the exact number is not known. It can also be recorded as unknown.

H_diagram_-_1

H_diagram_-_2

  1. Approximate number of storeys above ground [HAPP]
  2. Polygonal, with an opening in plan [PLFPO]
  3. Wooden beams or trusses and joists supporting heavy flooring [FW2]
  4. Cinema or concert hall [ASS3]

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