In contemporary society, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and achieving sustainable development are paramount goals. One effective approach is to preserve existing RC (Reinforced Concrete) buildings rather than demolishing them for new construction. However, a significant challenge arises from the lack of elevator designs in many of these existing RC buildings. Adding an external elevator becomes crucial to solving accessibility issues, enhancing property value, and satisfying modern residential buildings using convenient requirements. However, the structural performance of external elevator wells remains understudied. This research is designed by the actual external elevator project into existing RC buildings in Jinzhong Rd, Shanghai City. Specifically, this research examines five different external elevator wells under nonlinear pushover analysis, each varying in the height of the RC (Reinforced Concrete) footing. By analyzing plastic hinge states, performance points, capacity curves, spectrum curves, layer displacement, and drift ratio, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these structures of the external elevator well respond to seismic events. The findings are expected to serve as a valuable reference for future external elevator projects, ensuring the external elevator designs meet the seismic requirements. By emphasizing seismic resistance in the design phase, the research aims to enhance the overall safety and longevity of external elevator systems integrated into existing RC buildings.
