On the use of the equivalent linearization for bilinear oscillators under pulse-like ground motion
The equivalent linearization is a well-known simplified approach for estimating the maximum absolute displacement of inelastic systems, being widely adopted in many technical codes and guidelines. In this regard, the present paper addresses the use of the equivalent linearization to estimate the peak displacement of bilinear oscillators with known displacement ductility subjected to near-fault pulse-like earthquakes. An extensive numerical investigation is initially performed in order to evaluate the accuracy of a recent equivalent viscous damping formulation.