It is shown how the lateral force method of analysis contemplated by the Italian and European Codes is not suitable for describing the behavior of a building subject to seismic action, even under perfect structure regularity. The deficiency of the method is quantified, and the reasons behind it explained, namely the way the eccentricity is taken into account. Finally, an improved lateral force method is proposed, which is as simple as the current one, and at the same time able to fill the gap.
Available in Italian only.