| Summary: | The use of semi-rigid joints is among the novelties incorporated in Eurocode 3. The
benefits of semi-rigid joints are extensively documented, but they are not really used much in practice. There is a lack of appropriate design methods, models and tools.
In this thesis a design method suitable for semi-rigid joints is introduced. The proposed
method allows to optimize not only the size of the structural profiles, but also the joint design to match the optimal theoretical values. Pre-design methods for semi-rigid extended end-plate joints are also provided to easily check the feasibility and suitability of a particular connection design. The thesis has also introduced the semi-rigid behaviour of three-dimensional joints. An experimental investigation of statically loaded extended end-plate connections in both major and minor column axis was undertaken at the University of Navarra, Spain. The aim was to provide insight into the behaviour of these joints when loading is applied to both axes (threedimensional loading).
A new component for laterally supported plates in bending (applied to the column web
and the additional plate in bending) is presented and applied to minor axis joints. Also, complete elastic models for both major- and minor-axis three-dimensional joints are developed. The proposed formulation takes into account the stiffening effects of each component caused by the loads applied to both axes.
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