Download Part 2: PowerFrame Reference Manual

negative bending moments), but only one stiffness value can be accounted
for during the further global frame analyses.
The values presented depend on the ratio of the sollicitating moment MSd and
the resisting moment MRd of the connection. In case of positive bending
moments, the following rule is used to determine the connection stiffness for
transfer to PowerFrame:
• if MSd < 2/3 MRd
• if MSd > 2/3 MRd
Sj,ini
Sj
In case of a double connection (beam – column – beam), the connection
stiffness needs to be specified both at the right- and left-hand side of the
connection.
Third step:
Once the connection has been detailed, it can be saved in a so-called
connection library by clicking on the third button ‘Add the connection to the
library’. Don’t forget to first specify a name for the connection that is
transferred. Again, a ‘V’ sign affirms your operation.
Note: this operation is necessary when you want to assign this connection to
nodes.
Fourth step:
The last step consists in introducing the connection properties into the
PowerFrame global model. In case a stiffness has been calculated, those
stiffness value will be assigned to the ends of the bars that meet at the node.
To do so, click on the button ‘Assign the connection to the model’. The
original name ‘Group nr.1’ at the top of the window is now replaced by the
new name.
Since the model properties are changed, the results (internal forces) are no
longer coherent to this new model. However, it is still allowed to detail other
connection types without re-running the global analysis, at least as long as
the current dialogue window hasn’t been closed.
All steps have now been discussed. The same procedure can be used for all
other connection types.
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