Detailed Finite Element Model Research Articles

Strategic Placement of Accelerometers for Structural Health Monitoring of a Complex Unreinforced Stone Masonry Hindu Mandir

ABSTRACT The BAPS Hindu Mandir, recently constructed in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is a complex unreinforced stone masonry structure built from thousands of sculpted sandstone and marble pieces employing ancient Indian techniques called Shilp Shastra. The entire structure is substantially large with a footprint size of 5,100 m 2 and unique so that it is not covered by modern seismic design standards. Its performance was verified by conducting dynamic field tests presented herein. The most vulnerable substructure was identified based on both engineering judgement and modal analysis of the entire structure employing a detailed 3D finite element model, which was validated via the field experiments. A “local” model was developed for the identified vulnerable substructure which significantly reduced model complexity and allowed to overcome computational limitations. Based on the response of the local model, the relative importance of the sensor locations was determined via a Displacement Index method in addition to a reduction of the total variance of spectral accelerations using conditional probability theory. Through this approach, a methodology for selecting the optimal sensor placement with application on the complex unreinforced stone masonry Hindu Mandir is proposed.

Modelling of Multi-Storey Cross-Laminated Timber Buildings for Vibration Serviceability

In this study, the vibration serviceability of multi-storey timber buildings is addressed. The core of this study pertains to the preparation of a comprehensive finite element model to predict modal properties for an accurate vibration serviceability checking. To that end, findings obtained from studying three multi-storey timber buildings are summarized and discussed. Two of the buildings (of seven and eight storeys) consist entirely of cross-laminated timber (CLT), while the third is a five-storey hybrid CLT-concrete building. Thanks to the detailed finite element models and modal testing results, one has the capability to conduct sensitivity analyses, classical and Bayesian model updating, and uncertainty quantifications. With these methodologies, influential modelling parameters as well as the sources of modelling error were identified. This allowed for conclusions to be drawn about the in-plane shear stiffness of the constructed walls (whose higher value causes the natural frequencies to increase by up to 25%), the soil deformability (which may cause the natural frequencies to drop by up to 20%), and the perpendicular-to-the-grain deformation of floor slabs (which may lead to an overestimation of a fundamental frequency by up to 8%).

Gappy POD model for Structural Compliance of the Wing of a Civil Tilt-rotor

The selection of the most critical load conditions is an extremely important topic as it allows the design and structural verification to be limited to a limited subset of conditions that envelop the operational thousands of the Design Limit Load (DLL) book without necessarily having to apply a direct approach. Often, thousands of analyses are performed by a Detailed Finite Element Model (DFEM, including model loading, post-processing and full stress and buckling analysis) taking a long time with a higher probability of error. This work describes the effort to set up a surrogate model of a composite wing, which aims to supply, accurately and efficiently, the structural response of the wing to several solicitation loads that populate the DLL. The surrogate model is defined by employing the Proper Orthogonal Decomposition technique (POD), trained on partial knowledge of data. The snapshots collected are composed of load solicitations and, limited to a subset of wing elements, stress and strain states resulting from the structural response to the relative load solicitation in a numerical analysis. Gappy-POD algorithm is set up to deal with this lack of data in the querying stage when only the solicitations are known. The surrogate model training starts with a selection of loads from the DLL, while its reliability is increased by iteratively adding further FEM analyses based on error maps opportunely defined.

Tensile and Compressive Properties of Woven Fabric Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Laminates Containing Three-Dimensional Microvascular Channels.

Microvascular self-healing composite materials have significant potential for application and their mechanical properties need in-depth investigation. In this paper, the tensile and compressive properties of woven fabric carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates containing three-dimensional microvascular channels were investigated experimentally. Several detailed finite element (FE) models were established to simulate the mechanical behavior of the laminate and the effectiveness of different models was examined. The damage propagation process of the microvascular laminates and the influence of microvascular parameters were studied by the validated models. The results show that microvascular channels arranged along the thickness direction (z-direction) of the laminates are critical locations under the loads. The channels have minimal effect on the stiffness of the laminates but cause a certain reduction in strength, which varies approximately linearly with the z-direction channel diameter within its common design range of 0.1~1 mm. It is necessary to consider the resin-rich region formed around microvascular channels in the warp and weft fiber yarns of the woven fabric composite when establishing the FE model. The layers in the model should be assigned with equivalent unidirectional ply material in order to calculate the mechanical properties of laminates correctly.

Experimental, finite element and analytical characterization of hysteretic response of ductile connections with nailed angle brackets for mass timber structures

Engineered wood products along with advanced processing and fabrication are pushing the limits of modern wood construction. Innovative concepts and applications facilitate the development of a new generation of structural systems. However, capacities of such systems are often governed by capabilities of the connections. This paper presents the experimental results with numerical and analytical models of angle brackets for prediction of load bearing capacity, stiffness, and ductility. Three types of metal brackets in beam-column connections have been investigated and their performance has been studied in various loading arrangements. Detailed finite-element models of each connection have been developed to gain insights into their behavior. An analytical approach is also adopted to represent the connections. Comparison with test data suggests that the models can reproduce results with good accuracy. The findings confirm feasibility of implementing ductile connections in practical mass timber structures.

Segmented layered bistable piezoelectric laminates for enhanced energy harvesting from wind‐induced vibration

AbstractIn this study, a segmented layered bistable piezoelectric energy harvester (SBPEH) has been developed and thoroughly investigated for its wind energy harvesting capabilities. The SBPEH's performance was comprehensively evaluated through the creation of a detailed 3D finite element model using Abaqus and XFlow software, and further validated via rigorous wind tunnel experiments. The results of this research demonstrate the SBPEH's remarkable potential for wind energy harvesting. With a wide operational wind speed range, it achieved a maximum measured power output of 5.476 mW, coupled with an outstanding power density of 68.45 mW/cm3, both of which were realized at a wind speed of 13 m/s. It is worth noting that as the wind speed surpasses a specific threshold, the energy harvesting efficiency of the SBPEH experiences a decline, emphasizing the importance of identifying the optimal operational wind speed range for maximizing energy output. These findings offer valuable insights for the enhancement and application of SBPEHs, contributing to the advancement of renewable energy technologies and providing an eco‐friendly solution for power generation.Highlights The study introduces a new segmented layered bistable piezoelectric energy harvester (SBPEH) design for wind energy harvesting, addressing the limitations of traditional harvesters. Performance is evaluated through 3D finite element modeling, ABAQUS, Xflow simulations, and wind tunnel experiments. The SBPEH operates efficiently across a broad wind speed range (6–14 m/s), showcasing optimal output power of 5.476 mW at 13 m/s.

Detailed Finite Element Models for the Simulation of the Laser Shock Wave Response of 3D Woven Composites

This paper presents a numerical study on the laser shock wave propagation in a 3D woven carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) material by means of detailed and homogenized finite element (FE) models. The aim of this study is to numerically characterize the shock wave response of the 3D woven CFRP in terms of back-face velocity profiles and the induced damage, and to investigate whether the detailed FE models could be effectively replaced by homogenized FE models. The 3D woven geometry was designed using the TexGen 3.13.1 software, while the numerical analyses were executed using the R11.0.0 LS-Dyna explicit FE software. A high-strain-rate behavior was considered for the matrix. The fiber bundles in the detailed models were modeled as a high-fiber-content unidirectional composite laminate, with its mechanical properties calculated by micromechanical equations. A progressive damage material model was applied to both the fiber bundles of the detailed model and the homogenized models. The results of the detailed model reveal a considerable effect of the material’s architecture on the shock wave propagation and sensitivity of the back-face velocity profile to the spot location. Consequently, the homogenized model is not capable of accurately simulating the shock wave response of the 3D woven composite. Moreover, the detailed model predicts matrix cracking in the resin-rich areas and in the bundles with high accuracy, as well as fiber failure. On the contrary, the homogenized model predicts matrix cracking in the same areas and no fiber failure.

Operational modal analysis, seismic vulnerability assessment and retrofit of a degraded RC bell tower

This paper presents damage assessment through Operational Modal Analysis (OMA) and Finite Element (FE) model updating of the bell tower of the church of Castro in Bergamo, Italy. The tower is a 39 m high reinforced concrete structure with hollow cross-section and double-curved shape. The research was dictated by the need to identify the actual damage state of the structure, which was found through visual inspections. Piezoelectric accelerometers were used to record the ambient vibrations in subsequent test setups, using the roving technique for system identification. A detailed FE model was created with shell elements and calibrated to match the system identification results. A simplified beam model was then developed based on the modal analysis results of the detailed model. A sensitivity analysis was performed to identify the most influential model parameters on the modal characteristics of the system. Subsequently, the optimal values of these parameters were determined by an optimisation procedure carried out using a typical global optimization algorithm. The updating results allowed assessment of the actual condition of the bell tower and its seismic vulnerability. Finally, a seismic strengthening solution was recommended.

Structural health monitoring of a lenticular truss bridge: a comprehensive study

The combined use of finite element modeling and structural health monitoring is becoming increasingly relevant in bridge maintenance. A growing number of new and old structures is instrumented with different kinds of sensors driven by dedicated hardware and software, while numerical models are used to simulate the response of the structures under various scenarios. This paper presents the monitoring of the Smithfield Street Bridge, one of the oldest and most iconic bridges in the city of Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania, USA). The bridge was instrumented by an independent party, not involved with the research presented here, with strain, displacement, and rotation wireless sensors. A detailed finite element model of one of the spans of the bridge was developed to calculate the strains induced by standardized trucks under pristine and simulated damage conditions. In addition, the model enabled to determine the sensitivity necessary to detect relevant structural changes in the bridge. The results of the numerical analyses were then compared with the results of a test in which a truck of known weight crossed the bridge multiple times. Finally, the data relative to 3 years of uninterrupted monitoring were processed and analyzed to identify eventual anomalies.

Geometry Effects on Joint Strength and Failure Modes of Hybrid Aluminum-Composite Countersunk bolted Joints

This paper presents the effects of geometry parameters (width/hole diameter, and edge distance/hole diameter ratios) on the damage initiation and growth in the CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) composite-aluminum countersunk bolted joints. Strain gauge measurements conducted with an Instron testing machine along with a detailed 3D finite element model incorporating geometric, material, and friction-based contact nonlinearities were used to investigate the geometry parameters on the Progressive Damage Analysis (PDA) of the orthotropic material model. The PDA material model integrates the lamina nonlinear shear deformation, Hashin-type failure criteria, and strain-based continuum degradation rules, using the UMAT user subroutine in the MSC Software Corporation Patran-Nastran commercial software. The results showed that the geometry effects on damage initiation and failure modes are quite accurately predicted by the PDA material model, which proved to be computationally efficient, and therefore can predict failure propagation and damage mechanisms. Plate geometry is an important parameter in the design process of an adequate bolted joint while its effects on damage initiation and failure modes were quite accurately predicted by the analysis. The latter proved to be computationally efficient, and could successfully predict failure propagation and damage mechanism in hybrid metal-composite countersunk bolted joints.

Impact of rainfall on the thermal performance of geothermal permeable pavement systems

Geothermal permeable pavement (GPP) systems are a nascent type of energy geo-structures. GPP combine ground-source heat pump (GSHP) systems with permeable pavements to enable the additional functionality of heating and cooling, through energy harvesting using roads alongside existing drainage controls. GPP thermal performance is relatively unknown, hence, this research focuses on the development of a detailed 3D finite element (FE) model that considers local thermal non-equilibrium (LTNE) for exploring the influence of rainfall infiltration on the thermal performance of GPPs. The 3D numerical model was successfully validated and was used to evaluate the short-term thermal response of GPPs during rainfall events in both cooling (summer) and heating (winter) demand conditions. Furthermore, the diurnal rainfall effects and the influence of raindrop temperature and rainfall duration on GPPs were also examined. Results show that rainfall can have significant impacts on the thermal performance of GPPs and the raindrop temperature is an important parameter in yield predictions. Compared to no-rainfall events, the GSHP system fluid temperature during rainfall can differ by up to 19% when in the cooling operation model (air conditioning) and 63% in heating mode. These results indicate the significantly better performance of GPPs than impervious geothermal pavements, depending on the climatic conditions and end-use.

Brain Material Properties and Integration of Arachnoid Complex for Biofidelic Impact Response for Human Head Finite Element Model.

Finite element head models offer great potential to study brain-related injuries; however, at present may be limited by geometric and material property simplifications required for continuum-level human body models. Specifically, the mechanical properties of the brain tissues are often represented with simplified linear viscoelastic models, or the material properties have been optimized to specific impact cases. In addition, anatomical structures such as the arachnoid complex have been omitted or implemented in a simple lumped manner. Recent material test data for four brain regions at three strain rates in three modes of loading (tension, compression, and shear) was used to fit material parameters for a hyper-viscoelastic constitutive model. The material model was implemented in a contemporary detailed head finite element model. A detailed representation of the arachnoid trabeculae was implemented with mechanical properties based on experimental data. The enhanced head model was assessed by re-creating 11 ex vivo head impact scenarios and comparing the simulation results with experimental data. The hyper-viscoelastic model faithfully captured mechanical properties of the brain tissue in three modes of loading and multiple strain rates. The enhanced head model showed a high level of biofidelity in all re-created impacts in part due to the improved brain-skull interface associated with implementation of the arachnoid trabeculae. The enhanced head model provides an improved predictive capability with material properties based on tissue level data and is positioned to investigate head injury and tissue damage in the future.

Equivalent-oriented model for sandwich panels with ZPR accordion honeycomb

The core layer of accordion honeycomb sandwich panel (accordion HSP) exhibits exceptional affinity for one-dimensional curvature deformations due to its special zero Poisson’s ratio effect. This study thoroughly examines its static and dynamic characteristics by decomposing the analysis into unit-cell constitutive modeling and a two-dimensional equivalent-oriented model (2D-EOM) through the variational asymptotic method. The unit-cell constitutive modeling enables determining equivalent stiffness properties for the 2D-EOM. To validate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed 2D-EOM, its results are compared against those obtained from a detailed 3D finite element model, including in-plane and out-of-plane behaviors of the core layer and sandwich panel, as well as free and random vibration under diverse excitation conditions. The comparison results demonstrate a significant three-fold increase in the equivalent stiffness of the accordion honeycomb in the direction of the added ligaments, as compared to the re-entrant honeycomb. Simultaneously, the acceleration amplitude of the accordion HSP is effectively reduced by 4% due to the involvement of lower high-order frequencies, rendering it exceptionally suited for shockproof meta-structural applications. This equivalent model not only fulfills accuracy requirements but also improves computational efficiency by 15 times, providing an effective approach for preliminary design of honeycomb sandwich panels.

Unravelling Size-Dependent and Coupled Properties in Mechanical Metamaterials: A Couple-Stress Theory Perspective.

The lack of material characteristic length scale prevents classical continuum theory (CCT) from recognizing size effect. Additionally, the even-order material property tensors associated with CCT only characterize the materials' centrosymmetric behavior and overlook their intrinsic chirality and polarity. Moreover, CCT is not reducible to 2D and 1D space without adding couples and higher-order deformation gradients. Despite several generalized continuum theories proposed over the past century to overcome the limitations of CCT, the broad application of these theories in the field of mechanical metamaterials has encountered significant challenges. These obstacles primarily arise from a limited understanding of the material coefficients associated with these theories, impeding their widespread adoption. Implementing a bottom-up approach based on augmented asymptotic homogenization, a consistent and self-sufficient effective couple-stress theory for materials with microstructures in 3D, 2D, and 1D spaces is presented. Utilizing the developed models, material properties associated with axial-twist, shear-bending, bending-twist, and double curvature bending couplings in mechanical metamaterials are characterized. The accuracy of these homogenized models is investigated by comparing them with the detailed finite element models and experiments performed on 3D-printed samples. The proposed models provide a benchmark for the rational design, classification, and manufacturing of mechanical metamaterials with programmable coupleddeformation modes.

Seismic performance of confined prestressed hollow core wall panels part II: Numerical simulation and analysis

In Part I of this research, confined prestressed hollow core wall structures were proposed and experimental tests of 19 specimens were conducted to study its mechanical behaviors. In this part, a detailed finite element model was developed in ANSYS to provide a tool for further investigating the seismic behaviors of confined prestressed hollow core wall structures. Contact elements were applied to simulate the interaction between material interfaces. Techniques in ANSYS including coupling of degrees of freedom (CP) of overlapped nodes and deactivation of concrete elements (EKILL) were adopted, along with restart analysis (REST) to simulate nonlinear mechanical behaviors of the structural system. The developed modeling method was verified by the experimental test results and was shown to accurately predict the global and local behaviors such as failure modes and load bearing capacities of precast hollow core walls. Parametric analysis on shear span ratio, axial load ratio, rigidity of floor systems as well as strength of vertical wall-wall joints was conducted, and relevant design recommendations were provided for prestressed hollow core wall structures. Results show that for a ductile prestressed hollow core wall structure, the axial load ratio is recommended to be smaller than 0.06 and the story number less than 5. Influence of rigidity of floor systems requires further study with dynamic tests, but low-strength vertical wall-wall joint is highly recommended for this system. Two analytical mechanisms that are shear-flexural mechanism and truss mechanism were proposed for calculation of load bearing capacities. These two mechanisms provide good predictions for an upper bound and a lower bound for load bearing capacities of prestressed hollow core walls, respectively. From Part I and II of this research, the mechanical behaviors of prestressed hollow core wall structures are verified experimentally, numerically, and theoretically, and it is concluded that they can be used as a potential choice for low-rise buildings in rural areas.

Review Seismic Analysis of a Composite Bridge Structure and Its Properties

Abstract: The seismic performance of bridges is of paramount importance, particularly in regions prone to seismic activity. This study presents an in-depth analysis of the seismic behavior of a composite bridge structure using the powerful finite element analysis software, ANSYS. The research explores the response of a composite bridge, considering the dynamic forces induced during seismic events. A detailed finite element model is developed, incorporating the various components of the composite bridge, including the superstructure, substructure, and the interaction between different materials such as concrete and steel. The analysis involves subjecting the bridge model to realistic seismic ground motions to simulate real-world conditions. Various parameters are investigated, including the bridge's dynamic response, stresses, deformations, and potential failure modes. Through the utilization of ANSYS, this study provides critical insights into the seismic performance of composite bridges. The findings contribute to enhancing the design and construction of resilient infrastructure capable of withstanding seismic forces, ultimately ensuring the safety and functionality of vital transportation networks.

МОДЕЛЮВАННЯ НАПРУЖЕНО-ДЕФОРМОВАНОГО СТАНУ МЕТАЛЕВОГО СТРИЖНЕВОГО КАРКАСУ ГЕОДЕЗИЧНОГО КУПОЛУ ДЛЯ РАЦІОНАЛЬНОГО ПРОЕКТУВАННЯ

The paper contains the further developed of method for calculating thin-walled shells with supporting frame in the form of geodesic domes without a stationary foundation. Have been performed the detailed analysis of the fundamental design solutions of frame demountable domes with tent double-layer cover, the inner layer of which serves as a projection screen of three-dimensional cinemas, which are gaining popularity in the amusement industry. Have been developed highly detailed finite element models of dome with a base diameter of 13.5 m, taking into account technological holes and structural elements of rigidity under the influence of wind, snow, ice and other climatic influences. Have been modeled at the same time, various options for connecting the dome frame to the base. Have been proven that the worst influence on the dome structures is the wind influence, based on the stability criterion. Have been proven at also that the frame-rod tented construction of the geodome cannot function safely without reliable connection to the base. Have been identified, areas of the core elements of the frame with the highest internal stresses from various loads for all possible options for connecting the frame to the base. Have been considered the general nature of deformation and possible destruction of the structure, as well as the issue of loss of stability. Have been founded that the most stressed structures include the tent cover and bolted fasteners of the joints of the rod system. Have been proposed a rational method for anchoring frame dome structures at temporary earthen construction sites using geo-screws or metal screw piles. Have been proven the possibility of anchoring the supporting elements of the dome in five polar symmetrical points using ballast. Have been formulated the constructive recommendations regarding the rational design of frame dome systems. Have been developed the technological regulations for the further safe operation of frame geo-domes, and have been outlined the directions for further scientific research on this topic.

Finite element modeling and analysis of effect of preexisting cervical degenerative disease on the spinal cord during flexion and extension.

Recent studies have emphasized the importance of dynamic activity in the development of myelopathy. However, current knowledge of how degenerative factors affect the spinal cord during motion is still limited. This study aimed to investigate the effect of various types of preexisting herniated cervical disc and the ligamentum flavum ossification on the spinal cord during cervical flexion and extension. A detailed dynamic fluid-structure interaction finite element model of the cervical spine with the spinal cord was developed and validated. The changes of von Mises stress and maximum principal strain within the spinal cord in the period of normal, hyperflexion, and hyperextension were investigated, considering various types and grades of disc herniation and ossification of the ligamentum flavum. The flexion and extension of the cervical spine with spinal canal encroachment induced high stress and strain inside the spinal cord, and this effect was also amplified by increased canal encroachments and cervical hypermobility. The spinal cord might evade lateral encroachment, leading to a reduction in the maximum stress and principal strain within the spinal cord in local-type herniation. Although the impact was limited in the case of diffuse type, the maximum stress tended to appear in the white matter near the encroachment site while compression from both ventral and dorsal was essential to make maximum stress appear in the grey matter. The existence of canal encroachment can reduce the safe range for spinal cord activities, and hypermobility activities may induce spinal cord injury. Besides, the ligamentum flavum plays an important role in the development of central canal syndrome.Significance.This model will enable researchers to have a better understanding of the influence of cervical degenerative diseases on the spinal cord during extension and flexion.

Buckling resistance of axially loaded cold-formed steel built-up stiffened box sections through experimental testing and finite element analysis

The use of cold-formed steel (CFS) built-up sections in engineering practice is widely gaining popularity due to their ability to provide sustainable solutions and optimised section design opportunities. This paper presents an experimental and numerical investigation conducted on CFS built-up stiffened box section columns under axial compression. A total of 13 new experimental tests were conducted with specimens having an overall web depth up to 550 mm. Detailed nonlinear elasto-plastic finite element (FE) models were then developed and verified against the test results. Upon verification, a parametric study involving 144 FE models was carried out to investigate the effects of section thickness, column length, and screw spacing on the buckling resistance of CFS built-up stiffened box sections. The test and finite element analysis (FEA) results were compared with the buckling resistances determined by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI S100) and Australian and New Zealand Standards (AS/NZS 4600). It was found that the buckling resistances determined by the AISI S100 and AS/NZS 4600 for CFS built-up stiffened box sections were conservative by 9.3% on average, compared to experimental and FEA results. Modified Direct Strength Method (DSM) design equations for predicting the buckling resistances of CFS built-up stiffened box sections were then proposed, and a reliability analysis was conducted to assess the feasibility of the proposed equations.

An experimental and numerical study on the rotational behavior of bolted glulam beam-to-column connections reinforced by double U-shaped welded steel sections

The study presented the results of the experimental and numerical study on the rotational behavior of the bolted glulam beam-to-column connections reinforced by double U-shaped welded steel sections. To demonstrate the enhancement efficiency of double U-shaped steel sections on the performance of bolted glulam beam-to-column connections, both unreinforced and reinforced bolted glulam connections were tested under the monotonic pure bending scenario and the cyclic loading scenario with combined shear and bending, respectively. Besides, detailed finite element (FE) models of the reinforced bolted glulam beam-to-column connections were developed and then validated by the experimental results. The rotational behavior of the unreinforced connections and that of the reinforced connections were compared in terms of damage modes, performance parameters, stiffness degradation, and cumulative energy dissipation, respectively. The effects of two configurational parameters on the rotational behavior of the reinforced connections were analyzed, which were the diameter of the holes predrilled in the beams and the width-to-thickness ratio of the top plates of the U-shaped steel sections. In the monotonic pure bending tests, the rotational stiffness of the reinforced connections is 1.20–2.22 times that of the unreinforced connections. The rotational stiffness of the reinforced connections is enhanced as the width-to-thickness ratio of the top plates is reduced. Furthermore, when the diameter of the holes predrilled in the beams is enlarged from 22 mm to 30 mm, the rotational stiffness and the ultimate moment resisting capacity of the reinforced connections are reduced by 27.8% and 16.6%, respectively. As for the cyclic loading tests, when reinforced with U-shaped steel sections, the ultimate moment resisting capacity and the rotational stiffness of the bolted glulam connections are enhanced by 26.7% and 17.0%, respectively. The degradation of the secant stiffness of the unreinforced connection is more severe, indicating that the reinforcement with double U-shaped steel sections is an efficient damage-resistant technique for both new and existing bolted glulam connections. based on the developed FE models, both the failure modes and the moment-rotation curves of the reinforced connections under the monotonic pure bending scenario can be predicted.