An OpenSEES graphical user interface for structural dynamics and earthquake engineering instruction

Structural dynamics and earthquake engineering are fundamental subjects for civil and structural engineering students at undergraduate and graduate levels, particularly the students preparing to work in seismically active regions. However, these topics often pose challenges, especially for undergraduates, due to the complexities involved in solving differential equations of motion numerically. This paper introduces an educational Graphical User Interface (GUI) for OpenSEES, developed using MATLAB App Designer, to address these challenges. OpenSEES is a widely-used open-source software framework for simulating structural and geotechnical behavior under static and dynamic loads. The GUI simplifies the modeling process by focusing on essential input parameters for creating structural and seismic isolation system models. It also provides visualization tools for interpreting analysis results. The GUI consists of two primary components: one for dynamic analysis of single-degree-of-freedom (SDOF) systems, solved using a MATLAB-based numerical solver, and another for linear time history analysis of multi-degree-of-freedom fixed-based and seismically isolated shear frame structures. By generating input files for OpenSEES, the GUI aids in understanding the software's fundamental principles, enabling students to transition to modeling more complex structures. This tool is designed to be intuitive and accessible, making it a valuable resource for both graduate and undergraduate students studying structural dynamics and earthquake engineering.