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This paper introduces a new type of connection between concrete-filled steel tubular (CFST) column and reinforced concrete (RC) beam through a transitional RC ring beam encircling the CFST column. Four scaled specimens, representing an interior-column joint, were tested under bi-directional cyclic loads to examine the seismic performance and the influence of the reinforcement on the joint. Load-deformation response, failure mode, strain distribution, and energy dissipative performance were presented. Test results indicated ductile performance and the multi-directional nature of the force system in the ring beam. Finite element models were also calibrated against test results and results from parametric analysis confirmed the effect of tube diameter and longitudinal reinforcement in the ring beam on the structural performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on cylindrical and spherical tensegrity modules are extensively carried out. However research on other tensegrity modules is little reported. This paper presents an exploratory study on a new kind of tensegrity module – "torus". The topology of the torus tensegrity is firstly introduced. Then the initial form-finding of the torus tensegrity is discussed. The static and dynamic analysis of the torus tensegrity shows that prestressing has a stiffening effect on infinitesimal mechanism modes if the geometry is properly arranged. A new cable dome with a torus tensegrity employed as its ring beam is finally proposed. The behavior of the new dome is also examined. The work here will provide a reference for further research and application of the torus tensegrity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]