Behaviour and mathematical model for semi-rigid threaded-sleeve connection

Abstract

Threaded-sleeve connection (TSC) is a new type of semi-rigid connection for spatial grid structures. In this paper, bending behaviour of the TSC was analyzed and a mathematical model for prediction of moment-rotation behaviour was proposed. Firstly, experiments were conducted to investigate the bending performance and damage form of the TSC. The moment-rotation curves of the specimens were obtained as well. Then, solid finite element model was established through ANSYS. Comparing the theoretical analysis and experiments, it was observed that the numerical results agreed well with the experimental data, which indicates the feasibility of the finite element analysis method. Finally, the calculation formul as of the initial moment and the initial rotation of the TSC were obtained through MATLAB curve fitting. The shape parameter n was determined. Based on the Kishi-Chen power model, the moment-rotation model of the TSC was developed. Therefore, it will be possible to take into account semi-rigid analysis for a spatial grid structure with TSC easily and find the more actual behaviour of the structure.