Chords
vertical members at ends of segmented shearwall
chords carry flexure (tension & compression)
sheathing carries shear
posts or double studs should be used as segment chords
Tension Force
conservative to ignore dead load in FBD
0.6D+ 0.7E
Compression Force
gravity loads should be included in load combinations
consider compression perpendicular to grain on wall plates
Shear
assumed uniform throughout width of segment
sheathing neglected areas (above doors and windows) can significantly reduce deflections and anchorage forces