Atilla Bilgutay - Professor, SUNY at Buffalo, SA&P, Buffalo NY.

A structural system, different in its concept of synthesis and analysis, THE CROSS-STAGGER SYSTEM, is innovated to utilize the advantages of staggered truss system in two directions for low, medium and high rise structures. THE CROSS-STAGGER SYSTEM resists vertical and lateral lOads efficiently and cost effectively. One way floor systems, functioning as horizontal diaphragms, transfer vertical loads to the lower chords of floor deep main structural members. The main members are braced at their ends or at a core for lateral stability. They are arranged in plan so as to provide a core of resistance for lateral shear drifts, deformation and twist under wind or earthquake. Peripheral supports of the as۶emly counteract axial forces due to lateral bending