Joint Connection Research Articles

Component‐section transverse‐pressure effect on internal damage and failure mode of post‐installed rebar

AbstractA post‐installed rebar (PIR) is commonly used to establish structural connections between new components and existing structures, such as structural member extensions or concrete layer overlays in the construction/strengthening/retrofitting of buildings or bridges. In joint connections, the anchored PIR system always bears a non‐negligible compression in the component section, which is derived from the loads and self‐weight and has a confinement effect on the anchorage zone. However, excessive pressure can result in the fracture of the adhesive component, thereby leading to brittle failure in the PIR system. Owing to the important role of the adhesive component in the PIR system, this study is focused on the internal damage to the PIR system, and the effect of transverse pressure on the failure modes is investigated. This study comprises an experimental investigation of the failures of a PIR system under transverse pressure and a description of the internal damages based on the test results. Finally, an elastic analysis was established to explain the internal cracking and investigate the stress distribution in the PIR system. The tests on 34 pull‐out specimens showed two typical failures for the PIR system under transverse pressure (adhesive–rebar [A–R] interface failure and adhesive fracture failure). The A–R interface failure resulted from the shearing failure in the adhesive component, while the adhesive fracture failure resulted from the propagation of longitudinal and transverse cracks. The elastic analysis indicated that cracking in the concrete and adhesive component was dominated by circumferential stress, and the rebar rib direction and adhesive component thickness had a significant influence on the stress distribution. Based on this, some suggestions for anchorage design were made.

Median intraneural ganglion cyst at the elbow: the first known example of a joint connection and a reflection on the past. Illustrative case.

The articular origin of intraneural ganglion cysts has been previously described and well supported, except for the median nerve at the level of the elbow. The authors present a patient with a median intraneural ganglion cyst at the elbow region and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evidence of a joint connection to the proximal radioulnar joint. A 63-year-old man presented with thumb flexion weakness and dysesthesias in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Electromyography confirmed a median nerve lesion at the elbow. MRI demonstrated a median intraneural cyst as well as an extraneural cyst, both arising from the proximal radioulnar joint. The articular branch between the cyst and the proximal radioulnar joint was identified preoperatively on MRI and intraoperatively using indocyanine green. Following disconnection of the articular branch and pedicle and decompression of the intra- and extraneural cysts, the patient recovered grade M4 motor function after 6 months, with resolution of neuropathic pain immediately after surgery. The authors present the first case of a median intraneural cyst with a joint connection to the proximal radioulnar joint. The authors believe that this report along with other historical data strengthens the articular theory for intraneural ganglion cysts not only at this site but at all sites. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE24564.

Deflection function of a novel bolt-connected precast concrete floor

Owing to the post-cast procedure and relatively complex joint configuration, composite precast floors limit the full display of advantages of precast concrete systems. The development of fully assembled precast floors is of necessity; therefore, a novel bolt-connected precast concrete floor was proposed in this study to meet the increasing demand for quick assembly, lightweight, and good insulation in flooring systems. The proposed floors consist of precast sandwich unit slabs that are fully assembled to an integral floor with dry-type bolted connectors. Field static loading tests were conducted on four full-scale precast concrete floors. The test results indicate that the floors exhibited a two-way flexural ability due to the involvement of the bolted connectors. The restraining mechanism at anchorage and load-transferring mechanism at joints were investigated through a theoretical analysis. Based on the theory of plates and shells, a simplified theoretical method of solving the deflection function of the floors was established and validated to provide a reference for designing such fully assembled floors. The comparison between the theoretical and experimental results indicates that the arrangement of joint connectors could affect the theoretical calculation accuracy due to its influence on the performed continuity simplification. The application scope of the proposed theoretical method was evaluated through a finite element analysis.

An Adaptive Distributed Observer for a Class of Uncertain Linear Leader Systems Over Jointly Connected Switching Networks and Its Application

An Adaptive Distributed Observer for a Class of Uncertain Linear Leader Systems Over Jointly Connected Switching Networks and Its Application

Manuscript title: Experimental investigations of concrete-filled double skin steel tube column-column grouted connection under axial compression

This paper presents a novel grouted connection joint for prefabricated CFDST columns. In order to ascertain the reliability of this grouted connection, axial compression tests were conducted on 24 CFDST columns with grouted connections and 3 CFDST columns without grouted connections. The test parameters were grout strength, casing tube length, and length-to-diameter ratio. The results showed that the stub columns failed due to local buckling and the slender columns failed due to global buckling with significant lateral flexural deformation. CFDST columns with grouted connections exhibited a similar or even higher ultimate bearing capacity and much higher later bearing capacity than conventional CFDST columns. The ultimate bearing capacity of CFDST columns with grouted connections is influenced by the casing tube length and the length-to-diameter ratio. The increase in casing tube length leads to an increase in bearing capacity, while an increase in length-to-diameter ratio results in a decrease. Enhancing the grout strength does not significantly improve the ultimate bearing capacity. Furthermore, the effects of each test parameter on the stiffness, strength and ductility of the CFDST column-column grouted connections were evaluated. Finally, by considering the interaction between components and the impact of casing tube length on bearing capacity, a prediction equation for the ultimate bearing capacity of CFDST column-column grouting connections was developed. This equation can offer accurate predictions with an average error of less than 1% to provide a reference for the joint design.

Seismic Performance of Precast Concrete Bridge Piers with Built-In Steel Tube Connection Key

Investigating the seismic behavior of precast concrete bridge piers is crucial in the design process due to the complex stress distribution in the connecting components. To demonstrate the seismic behavior of precast concrete bridge piers with hybrid joint connections, three bridge piers were designed with a scaling ratio of 1:8 and then tested under low cyclic loading conditions. The tests involved varying shapes of steel tube connection keys as parameters. This study involved examining failure modes and crack development, as well as analyzing the hysteretic performance, deformation capacity, energy dissipation, and stiffness degradation of the specimens. Furthermore, a finite element model was developed using ABAQUS, and the validity of the modeling approach suggested in this study was confirmed through tests. The results indicate that the precast piers exhibit reduced concrete damage at the joints. The enhanced strength of the joints is attributed to the incorporation of steel tube connection keys. The circular steel tube connection key integrated into the precast bridge pier offers a superior bearing capacity, energy dissipation, and stiffness degradation compared to the cross-shaped steel tube connection key. The presence of the built-in circular steel tube connection key in the precast bridge pier suggests that it complies with the seismic structural measures and is consistent with the design principle of “strong joint and weak member”.

Reliability analysis of support strategies in tunnel construction: Insights from geomechanical analysis of jointed rock masses

In this study, the dynamics of jointed rock masses in the challenging geological setting of the Himalayas, with a focus on tunneling activities and recommendations of support for jointing rock mass, were investigated. The jointing in Himalayan rocks mass poses significant implications for tunnel stability, demanding a detailed analysis of joint characteristics, such as joint connectivity and spacing. The parameter of joint connectivity rate along the Himalayas becomes a key focus, impacting rock mass strength for tunneling. The study utilized quadratic polynomial and reciprocal expressions of power functions, to characterize the nonlinear variation of jointed rock mass strength concerning joint connectivity rate. Integration of these results leads to unified equations that consider rock type dependence, having a realistic representation of jointed rock behavior. Numerical analysis reveals that jointing in rock affects instability through complex stress regimes, identifying critical stress concentration points. The effectiveness of support measures like rock bolts and shotcrete are validated, demonstrating their role in reducing displacements in tunnels.

Experimental and numerical investigation on composite beam–column joint connection behavior using different types of connection schemes

Abstract Over the past few decades, composite joints have been regarded as one of the most promising approaches. After reviewing the research articles dealing with composite beam-column joints, it can be withdrawn that few researchers studied and developed different types of composite beam-column joints. The objectives of this paper to study the effect and behavior of different connection types on the composite beam – column joint under repeated loading as well as to investigate new forms of slab connection with column flange in composite connection joints, aiming to enhance the behaviors of the joints and make the slab endure a part of the load in a more efficient way. Five specimens with various connection types were tested to failure; the composite model number two (CM2) was considered the control specimen. Regarding the ultimate moment, the result found that CM5 has moment 50.47% more than control specimen, the lowest rotation value was in CM5. The general behaviours of the FEM were in good accordance with the experiment results. According to the parametric a higher yield strength is more rigid stiffer, the effect of web thickness on the load is too small and increase in load resistance with an increase in beam flange thickness.

Center-Punching Mechanical Clinching Process for Aluminum Alloy and Ultra-High-Strength Steel Sheets

In recent years, with the rapid advancement of automotive lightweight technology, the mechanical clinching process between aluminum alloy and ultra-high-strength steel sheets has received extensive attention. However, the low ductility of ultra-high-strength steel sheets often results in conventional mechanical clinching processes producing joints that either fail to establish effective interlocks or cause the steel sheets to fracture. To address this issue, a novel mechanical clinching process is presented, called center-punching mechanical clinching (CPMC). This innovative process employs a method of punching, flanging, and bulging gradation to achieve the mechanical clinching of aluminum alloy and ultra-high-strength steel sheets in a single step. In order to determine the effects of different parameters on the quality and strength of the joint, an experimental study was carried out for various die depths and diameters based on the condition of constant punch size. Based on tensile and shear tests, the static strength and failure modes of CPMC joints were analyzed. The results indicated that the CPMC process significantly enhances the connectivity of joints for AA5052 aluminum alloy and DP980 ultra-high-strength steel. Optimal tensile and shear strengths of 1264 and 2249 N, respectively, were achieved at a die depth of 2.2 mm and a diameter of 10.4 mm. The CPMC process provides new ideas for the mechanical clinching of aluminum alloy and ultra-high-strength steels.

Fuzzy Adaptive Event-Triggered Consensus Control for Nonlinear Multiagent Systems Under Jointly Connected Switching Networks.

This article studies the fuzzy adaptive event-triggered (ET) consensus control issue of nonlinear multiagent systems (NMASs) under jointly connected switching networks. Since the leader and its high-order derivatives are unknown under jointly connected switching networks, a novel distributed ET reference generator equipped with an ET mechanism is constructed to estimate them. Meanwhile, the continuous information transmission among agents is avoided and the network channel utilization is optimized. Subsequently, fuzzy logic systems (FLSs) are employed to approximate unknown dynamics, and a fuzzy adaptive ET consensus control algorithm only using intermittent communication is designed by backstepping control methodology. It is demonstrated that all the closed-loop signals are semi-globally uniformly ultimately bounded (SGUUB), with the tracking errors converging to a small neighborhood around zero. Finally, we apply the developed fuzzy adaptive ET consensus control algorithm to unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), and the simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed ET consensus control algorithm.

Cartilage Tissue Engineering in Multilayer Tissue Regeneration.

The functional and structural integrity of the tissue/organ can be compromised in multilayer reconstructive applications involving cartilage tissue. Therefore, multilayer structures are needed for cartilage applications. In this review, we have examined multilayer scaffolds for use in the treatment of damage to organs such as the trachea, joint, nose, and ear, including the multilayer cartilage structure, but we have generally seen that they have potential applications in trachea and joint regeneration. In conclusion, when the existing studies are examined, the results are promising for the trachea and joint connections, but are still limited for the nasal and ear. It may have promising implications in the future in terms of reducing the invasiveness of existing grafting techniques used in the reconstruction of tissues with multilayered layers.

Experimental Research on Mechanical Properties of Connection Joint Between Inclined Strut and Column in Steel Storage Rack

Experimental Research on Mechanical Properties of Connection Joint Between Inclined Strut and Column in Steel Storage Rack

Axial behavior variation of 72-story concrete-filled steel tubes with different joint connections due to interface debonding considering long-term deformation of concrete core

Long-term concrete deformation including shrinkage and creep occurring seriously threats the longevity, safety and serviceability of concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) structures. In this study, numerical simulation on the variation of axial behavior of 72-story CFST structures with different joint connection details due to interface debonding considering shrinkage and creep of concrete core is carried out. Three connection details including connections with inner horizonal diaphragms only, two-direction through-beams only, and inner horizontal diaphragms combined with two-direction through-beam, are considered, respectively. Vertical loading from floors is treated as centralized vertical force applied on steel tube directly. The shrinkage of concrete core is simulated by decreasing concrete temperature. A cohesive constitutive law and a Coulomb friction model are employed to describe the interface behavior in tangential direction before and after debonding, respectively. The interaction between concrete core and steel tube in normal direction is treated as a hard contact. The concrete plastic-damage (CPD) constitutive model is used for concrete core and a plastic constitutive law is employed for the steel tube. The initiation of the interface debonding between steel tube, H-shaped steel beam flanges, inner diaphragms and concrete, the variation of the force transfer path, stress redistribution, steel tube yielding and the final failure are described in detail. Results show that the axial load-carrying capacity of each CFST structure has a decrease of 26-28% when compared with that determined by the current design code where the confinement effect is considered, and a decrease of 9-10% when compared with that determined by the current design code where the confinement effect of steel tube is not considered. Moreover, the axial stiffness decreases to 76-78% of their theoretical values when debonding is not considered. Numerical results show that the interface debonding negatively affects the long-term axial load-carrying capacity and stiffness obviously, which has not been considered in current design codes. Some comments on the design of CFST members are proposed based on the numerical simulation results.

Deformation ability of modular gymnasium steel inner sleeve all-bolt cross connection joint based on 3D-DIC method

Immense roof loads present a significant hurdle for the functionality of continuously supported modular connection joints in movable modular gymnasium structures. Consequently, we introduced leveraging inner sleeves and bolts to interconnect the modular units of the upper and lower columns, aiming to bolster the strength of inter-unit connections. Despite its noteworthy benefits, the deformation behavior and force distribution characteristics of this novel design remain underexplored. Hence, our study employs three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) measurement to precisely capture the full-field displacement and strain distributions within the core area of this joint. Four distinct joint specimens were designed, and conducted comprehensive static tests, encompassing variables such as the inclusion or exclusion of inner sleeves, reinforcing ribs, and diverse loading directions. 3D-DIC detected subtle deformations and local buckling phenomena, undetectable by the naked eye, and revealed their occurrence patterns. Furthermore, the detections underscore the critical role of weld quality between beams and columns in ensuring the overall safety of the joints. The joint exhibited earlier yielding in beam bending compared to column bending. To delve deeper into this joint, we generated moment-rotation curves leveraging DIC results, deducing that this joint exhibits rigid-joint characteristics. The specimens primarily showed damage modes such as beam-root fractures or member buckling, while the core area remained intact. This observation reinforces the classification of the joint as a full-strength entity. These insights enrich our comprehension of this novel joint and serve as invaluable references and aids for designers.

Study on the tensile properties of a novel modular splicing joint

The interconnection among module elements within a modular structure assumes a pivotal role in upholding structural integrity and stability. To address the challenges posed by existing inter-module connection joints, which necessitate operational space and may compromise the integrity of the module unit while impeding assembly efficiency, an innovative modular steel structure splicing joint is proposed. Through adjustments to the dimensions of the connection box and fastener components, four distinct spliced joints were established for axial tensile analysis. The subsequent evaluation included an examination of axial tensile capacity, strain distribution, and failure modes at critical points across various joints, providing insights into their tensile effectiveness. To comprehensively explore the influence of size parameters on tensile performance, a corresponding numerical model was developed for parametric analysis. Results indicate that tensile failure modes entail the extrication of the lower-end plate from the upper module column connection box and the cylindrical radius of the fastener. Notably, the protrusion radius of the fastener (R2), markedly influences the tensile bearing capacity of the spliced joints, with precedence over the lower end plate thickness (d0), cylinder radius (R1), sliding block thickness (d1), and limiting plate thickness (d2). The joint obviates the need for external operations to interlink module units, thereby augmenting the installation efficiency of the modular structure and mitigating complexities in design and the enigmatic transmission of forces within the self-locking joint.

Development of a new analytical model for circular concrete ring segments with dry joints under combined effects

AbstractPrevious models of circular ring segment joints have been inadequate in describing their loading capacity due to the lack of consideration for the interaction between shear force and bending moment. Consequently, these models have led to over‐ or underestimation of the joints' capacity. The increasing use of dry joint connection technology in wind turbine towers and prefabricated segmental bridge constructions necessitates the development of advanced computational models for these connections. This study presents a new model that considers the effects of bending moment, shear force, and torsion on the loading capacity of circular ring segment joints. Numerical simulations were conducted to validate the developed model under different load combinations, and the results demonstrate excellent agreement between the model predictions and numerical simulations.

Experimental study on the flexural performance of concrete hollow composite slabs with tightly connected panel sides

The performance of joint connections in composite slabs is crucial for ensuring their bidirectional load-bearing capacity and overall structural integrity. To effectively address the challenge of protruding rebar in precast components, a new structural form of a tightly connected hollow concrete composite slab without protruding rebar on the slab side is proposed. To investigate the mechanical performance and failure modes of this slab-side tight-joint connected hollow concrete composite slab, bending performance tests under monotonic load were conducted on three tightly connected hollow composite slabs and one seamless hollow composite slab. The analysis focused on the failure modes, crack distribution, bending capacity, and bending stiffness of additional steel bars at the joints of the slabs. The results indicate that, under normal operating conditions, the flexural performance development of concrete hollow composite slabs with tightly connected slab sides is generally consistent with that of the non-spliced cast hollow composite slab. Under ultimate conditions, tearing or brittle fracture failure at the joint interface is likely to occur in the composite slabs, leading to a reduction in flexural bearing capacity. With an increase in joints, the bending capacity of the hollow composite slab decreases by 17.1%, Conversely, when joints are positioned away from the most stressed section, the flexural stiffness of the section increases by 13.5%. A comparison of experimental data and theoretical calculations indicates that the additional rebar at the joints effectively contributes to the lateral load transfer in the hollow composite slab, achieving bidirectional load-bearing capacity. This further validates that the design of the single-joint, tight-joint connected hollow concrete composite slab without protruding rebar meets the requirements for bidirectional load-bearing performance.

Active constraint control for the surgical robotic platform with concentric connector joints

Robotic minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has changed numerous surgical techniques in the past few years and enhanced their results. Haptic feedback is integrated into robotic surgical systems to restore the surgeon's perception of forces in response to interaction with objects in the surgical environment. The ideal exact emulation of the robot's interaction with its physical environment in free space is a very challenging problem to solve completely. Previously, we introduced the surgical robotic platform (SRP) with a novel concentric connector joint (CCJ). This study aims to develop a haptic control system that integrates an active constraint controller into a surgical robot platform. We have successfully established haptic feedback control for the surgical robot using constraint control and inverse kinematic relationships integrated into the overall positioning structure. A preliminary feasibility study, modelling, and simulation were presented.

Topology optimization with the redesigned suspension system of the internal combustion vehicle converted to an electrical vehicle

Abstract In this paper, the topology optimization of lower wishbone for a passenger car which is the converted of an internal combustion engine vehicle to an electrical vehicle was presented. On the other hand, the need to study on a suspension system arose for electrical car that was redesigned. In study, topology optimization of the structural design of the lower wishbone to be used in the front suspension was carried out by Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Method. For this purpose, firstly, the suspension spring curves and damper curves that will improve the handling, ride and comfort behaviour of the vehicle were determined, suspension system was modelled with the Multi Body Dynamics (MBD) approach. Hardpoints is necessary for vehicle dynamics and that is also an input for FEA were obtained from new suspension system via MBD analysis. In the second step, The preliminary design of the lower wishbone was created, taking into account together with the positions of the wheel drive shaft, suspension spring and brake system structural elements according to hardpoints. After designing the structure suitable for the joint types, initial design was studied on the remaining region that is for weight reduction region except the joint connection surfaces. Then, topology optimization was applied to the preliminary design for the selected load types that is come from MBD analysis. Thus, the excess volume on the preliminary design was determined for each load type. In the last stage, the results of topology optimization analysis were evaluated to reach out target weight and the producible design of the wishbone was made. Finally, Finite Element Analysis were applied to the final design for validation purposes within topology optimization work was done with the forces coming from Multi Body Dynamics. After statically solved Finite Element Analysis, a modal neutral file(.mnf) was created via FEA solver and was integrated to Adams Car as a flexbody. Flexbody was attahced to the other parts which are rigid bodies like nuckle according to Multi Body Dynamics approach. Dynamics durability cases was carried out via Adams Car. Stress results was compared to FEA results and evaluated depends on yield stress. Study results shows that the new design is lighter and competitive design and also safe in dynamics analysis for redesigned passenger car.

Manufacturing design of plain milling technology of spline shaft by formed disc-type milling cutter

Abstract The spline fittings are widely used in different mechanical constructions where high load transmission is required from a shaft to a spline plate or a tooth gear or other internal cylindrical element. In many cases a key joint connection can not bear the load that we want to transform. In this case the application of double key could give solution. But sometimes it does not give solution due to the high load that is why spline fitting should be used. This publication focuses for the manufacturing of the spline shaft with plain milling technology. The type of the tool is a formed disc type milling cutter. Since more splines are around the perimeter of the shaft the repetition of the milling process is needed in the function of the number of the splines. All of the manufacturing parameters will be determined that are needed for a complex technological analysis such as cutting forces, machining times, speeds, etc. The chip volume will be approximated by volume constancy since the separated chip volume is a quite complex geometric body. I will prescribe initial technological parameters and define existing shaft geometries for which I will determine the technological parameters to show and analyze the correlations between the technological parameters and the variable for each shaft.