7.4 Connection Types

In Window 1.4 Connection Types, you can define the specific input parameters of the connection according to the DSTV (German Steel Construction Association) type catalog.

The window is divided into two parts: On the left, the connection parameters are displayed; on the right, they are illustrated by graphics. The upper graphic shows a system sketch of the current parameter, the lower graphic shows a 3D visualization of the connection.

The buttons below the 3D graphic are described in Table 3.1.

In the upper left section, you can see the connection types that are possible according to the DSTV guideline [3] [4]. Each Type is characterized by its label and the used Size and Class of Bolts.

The connection type can be specified by using the check mark in the Used column. The Details section below shows the parameters of this connection. The 3D graphic displays the connection geometry dynamically.

If you click the [Suggest the Best Type] button, RF-/JOINTS performs a quick design of the connection. In the last column, the Utilization of each variant is displayed (see figure above). It makes it easier to select the appropriate connection for the analysis.

This section contains all the information about the selected joint, such as the cross-section and plate geometry, bolts, welds, as well as resistances and stiffnesses.

There are additional modification options for some categories.

The extension of the end plate can be arranged at the top or bottom by using the Mirrored plate option. This specification affects the results because the reverse moment may become governing.

Pinned connections of the types IS (connections with end plate) and IW (connections with angles) can also be combined with the type IK (notches).

In the other boxes you can define the geometry parameters of the notching: the Length, Height, and Fillet corner radius.