Abstract
AbstractModular construction is a sustainable mode of construction whose speed, efficiency, and improved quality control sets it apart from traditional construction practices. A key component in modular construction is the connection between the individual modules, which hold the modules together against applied loads such as gravity, snow, wind, and earthquake. A state-of-the-art cast steel connector, named the VectorBloc connector, is presently used in the connections between steel modules made from hollow structural steel (HSS) members. The novelty of the VectorBloc connector is that it provides both beam-column connection in a module and inter-modular connection between modules. This study presents the behavior of a typical corner beam-column connection under uniaxial bending, biaxial bending, axial tension, and axial compression loads in comparison with predetermined design loads. The connection was studied through full-scale experimental testing and finite element analysis (FEA) methods. The results of this study confirmed the connection can safely withstand the design loads and identified the modes of failure under the varying load types. In addition, a parametric study was conducted using FEA that identified possible ways in which the design of the connector could be further optimized. This study concludes that the weight of the connector can be reduced while still maintaining enough capacity to withstand the design loads and the location of the screws can be adjusted to improve the tension capacity of the connection.
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