Seismic behavior and moment transfer capacity of an innovative self-locking inter-module connection for modular steel building. (15th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chen, Zhihua; Wang, Jian; Liu, Jiadi; Khan, Kashan
• Is Part Of: Engineering structures. Volume 245(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10-15
• Subjects: Modular steel building -- Inter-module connection -- Seismic behavior -- Self-locking -- Moment transfer capacity; Structural engineering -- Periodicals; Structural analysis (Engineering) -- Periodicals; Construction, Technique de la -- Périodiques; Génie parasismique -- Périodiques; Pression du vent -- Périodiques; Earthquake engineering; Structural engineering; Wind-pressure; Periodicals; 624.105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engstruct.2021.112978
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0141-0296

Abstract

Highlights: An innovative self-locking inter-module connection was proposed. The seismic behavior of the innovative inter-module connection was investigated through four cyclic tests. A detailed and simplified finite element model was created and validated. The moment transfer capacity of the inter-module connection was investigated using a mechanical theoretical model. Abstract: Modular steel buildings (MSBs) are a new type of structure composed of complete building blocks. The inter-module connection is a critical component that contributes significantly to the ease of on-site assembly and structural safety of MSB. At the moment, the majority of inter-module connections are welded, bolted, or prestressed, which presents issues such as poor quality, inefficient construction, and conflict with interior decoration. To address the issues mentioned above, this paper proposes an innovative self-locking inter-module connection. To proceed, four cyclic tests were performed to determine the effect of connection types, twin-beams gap, and beam section form. The test results presented failure mode, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation of the specimens. Following that, a detailed and simplified finite element model was created and validated using test data. Finally, the formula for the bending moment of the inter-module connection was derived using a mechanical theoretical model. The results indicated that the moment transfer capacity of the inter-module connection was related to its rotational stiffness and the linear stiffness of the floor and ceiling beams. The research presented here will serve as an effective reference for the engineering design of MSB.