What does UPBD mean in UNCLASSIFIED

Performance-Based Seismic Engineering (PBEE) is an advanced analysis and design methodology that takes into consideration a building's unique characteristics and vulnerabilities to seismic hazards. The goal of PBEE is to ensure a building's safety and functionality after an earthquake, by accounting for local soil conditions, seismic waves, structural elements, and other factors.

Traditional approaches focus mainly on prescriptive codes which dictate certain requirements that must be followed in order for buildings to meet certain standards. UPBD differs in that it focuses more on specific performance criteria such as ductility capacity, deformation limits, and temporal effects which can be individually tailored to each specific building.

UPBD is beneficial because it promotes the use of standards based on a buildings performance capabilities rather than simply following code requirements. This allows for greater flexibility when designing structures that may have unique needs or vulnerabilities due to their location or surrounding environment. Additionally, using this approach can often reduce overall construction costs as fewer materials may be needed compared to standard prescribed methods.