Our state structural engineering association helped with this study. Although it is for NH there are formulas for calculation of snowload with elevation and a methodology for how the snow loads were developed. It may be of use to you.
http://www.senh.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/tr02-6.pdf
I'll take a shot to answer your question. I am using the 2006 IBC as reference.
Section 105 states when you need a permit
Section 106 states what documents you need to submit for a permit
Srction 106.3.4 states that the building official is authorized to require that a registered design...
on page 5 of this reference they provide some displacement, velocity, acceleration, and frequency limits for computer systems:
http://www.vulcanhammer.net/svinkin/BLST-CRT.pdf
To answer your first question: according to our vibration consultant the maximum allowable accelerations to prevent damage to a steel building is 10 mm/sec.
Take a look at the RISA help file under "Modeling Tips" then scroll down to the section titled "Modeling Inclined Supports". I believe this is what JAE was refering to.
According to these guys (see question #27)
http://www.unistrut.com/DB/PDF1/Grating_FAQ.pdf
their grating can be used for a diaphragm.
I am not endorsing this use but simply pointing it out.
JAE, you're welcome. I would also look into design standards for tornado born missile barriers. A lot was done in the nuclear power industy in that regard. Good luck.
The best approach we have found so far is to consider the curtain rotating in rigid body motion. Then you can equate lateral and vertical moments to calculate displacment which will then provide the axial force in the curtain. We will be very conservative in applying "adjustment" factors to the...
