Influence of Truss Plate Connectors on the Analysis of Light Frame Structures

A method of analysis for a plane framed structure with nonrigid connections is studied. The method encompasses the concept of matrix method. Structures are modeled using two types of elements, namely, a beam element and a joint element. Each two-dimensional joint element is composed of three linear springs having no physical dimensions, representing shear, axial, and moment resistance. The mechanical properties of the joint element are obtained experimentally. Two frames and several beams are tested, and results are compared to analytical results. Good correlations are obtained.A solution of a truss with toothed metal plate connectors is presented and a general agreement with available solutions is obtained. A sensitivity study presenting the influence of joint stiffnesses is also presented. It is found that moment and axial spring properties have appreciable influence on members end forces, while the shear spring properties have little effect