ABSTRACT
This paper is concerned with the investigation of simplified methods for incorporating local non-linear joint behaviour in framework pushover-type analyses. In particular, the use of non-linear spring elements to incorporate the non-linear joint behaviour in a beam element framework model is investigated. The spring element characteristics are uniquely determined for each joint from isolated joint FE analyses, under the in-situ framework brace loading ratio on that particular joint. The simplified framework predictions and performance are compared with more conventional modelling methods of framework pushover analyses, including (i) beam element, (ii) three-dimensional brick element and (iii) hybrid shell and beam element framework models, and also with experimental results.
