The STAAD.Pro seismic load generator follows the procedure of equivalent lateral load analysis explained in UBC, IBC and several other codes. It is assumed that the lateral loads will be exerted in X and Z (or X and Y if Z is up) directions (horizontal) and Y (or Z if Z is up) will be the direction of the gravity loads. Thus, for a building model, Y (or Z if Z is up) axis will be perpendicular to the floors and point upward (all Y (or Z if Z is up) joint coordinates positive). The user is required to set up his model accordingly. Total lateral seismic force or base shear is automatically calculated by STAAD using the appropriate equation from the code. IBC 2003, IBC 2000, UBC 1997, 1994, or 1985, IS:1893, Japanese, Colombian and other specifications may be used.

For load generation per the codes, the user is required to provide seismic zone coefficients, importance factors, soil characteristic parameters, etc. See TR.31.2 地震解析用静的力手順の定義 for the detailed input required for each code.

Instead of using the approximate code based formulas to estimate the building period in a certain direction, the program calculates the period using Rayleigh quotient technique. This period is then utilized to calculate seismic coefficient C.

After the base shear is calculated from the appropriate equation, it is distributed among the various levels and roof per UBC specifications. The distributed base shears are subsequently applied as lateral loads on the structure. These loads may then be utilized as normal load cases for analysis and design.