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In this study, OBC joint is improved by incorporating one web, two flanges, and two additional bolts, putting forward a novel semi-rigid joint referred to as IBC joint. Finite element models of both OBC and IBC joints are established and the former is validated based on previous research. Subsequently, a total of 84 numerical models is utilized to investigate and compare the mechanical behaviors of OBC and IBC joints, taking into account different thicknesses of side plate and flange as wll as various loading conditions. The numerical results indicate that: (I) in comparison to OBC joints, the IBC joints exhibit significant enhancements in strong axis bending performance and axial tensile performance, including average enhancement ratios of 48%, 67%, 44%, and 19% in initial strong axis bending stiffness, ultimate strong axis bending moment, initial tensile stiffness and ultimate tension, respectively; (II) compared to OBC joints, the IBC joints demonstrate reduced capacity in axial torsional resistance and axial compressive performance, with mean decline ratios of 54%, 39%, 14%, and 7% in initial torsional stiffness, ultimate torque, initial compressive stiffness and ultimate compression, respectively; (III) OBC joints have better weak axis bending performance compared to IBC joints, but this gap decreases remarkably with increasing thicknesses of side plate and flange; (IV) the initial out-of-plane shear stiffness and ultimate out-of-plane shear of the IBC joint exhibit average enhancement of approximately 20% and 10%, respectively, when compared to those of the OBC joint; (V) regarding in-plane shear performance, the initial stiffness of IBC joints exceeds that of OBC joints by an average ratio of 61%, while IBC joints with flange thickness over 10 mm demonstrate significant improvement in ultimate capacity; (VI) The mechanical performance of OBC and IBC joints shows varying degrees of improvement with an increase in the thicknesses of side plate and flange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The monopile-friction wheel hybrid foundation withstands various loads in the marine environment, such as the vertical load (V) transmitted from the superstructure, horizontal loads (H) caused by wind or wave, torsional loads (T) caused by rotating structures. In this article, 1 g model tests are used to investigate the behavior of the monopile-friction wheel hybrid foundation under independent horizontal load (H) or torsional load (T), and combined loads (H-T) in sand soil, respectively. The failure envelopes of H-T loading plane are obtained from the measured load-displacement data with the simplified calculation equations presented as well. Finally, we also discuss quantitatively the influences of the pre-vertical loads, foundation geometry and loading eccentricity on the bearing capacity of the hybrid foundation via the three-dimensional finite element method. The results indicate that the displacement response of the hybrid foundation under independent loading is significantly different from that subjected to combined loads (H-T). The torsional bearing capacity of the hybrid foundation can be significantly improved by 6.6-33.34% under pre-horizontal load. The horizontal bearing capacity of the hybrid foundation decreases sharply after the pre-torsional load reaches a certain value, which decreases by about 20%. The presence of a friction wheel improves the torsional/bending moment distribution of pile shaft. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In reinforced concrete flat slab buildings, the transference of unbalanced moments in the slab–column connections usually results from the asymmetry of spans, vertical loads, and horizontal forces from the wind. The punching strength of the slab–column connections can limit the load-carrying capacity of the structure in these cases, leading to structural collapse. The design code provisions are still based on empirical or semi-empirical equations; as the punching shear failure mechanisms are complex, and the ultimate strength is affected by several parameters. In this context, this paper presents the results of the computational investigation of the mechanical behaviour of flat slabs subjected to balanced and unbalanced moments using numerical Finite Element models. The numerical models were calibrated and accurately reproduced the behaviour and the punching resistance for concentric and eccentric loading. Furthermore, a parametric study was conducted to evaluate the mechanical behaviour of flat slabs under different load eccentricities, confirming that the increase in the unbalanced moment negatively impacts the load-carrying capacity of the slab–column connection. Furthermore, it was observed that all computational results obtained from models with unbalanced bending moments were higher than those estimated by the design codes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excavation in Sabkha soils, found in coastal regions of Saudi Arabia, presents complex challenges in construction due to their unique geotechnical characteristics. These soils are known for their high compressibility, collapsibility, and variable sediment deposition, rendition them unsuitable for excavation without adequate support systems. As urbanization and industrial activities continue to expand into these areas, the demand for effective excavation support systems becomes gradually critical. This study investigates the feasibility of employing Deep Soil Mixing (DSM) as an excavation support system in Sabkha soils. Utilizing finite element analysis through PLAXIS 3D software, the behaviour of DSM walls in Sabkha soil under various conditions is rigorously simulated. The findings of this research establish that DSM walls can serve as an efficient excavation support system in Sabkha soils, provided that crucial factors, particularly excavation depth, are considered during the design phase. The study demonstrates that properly designed DSM walls, in combination with appropriate anchoring methods, can substantially reduce horizontal displacement and bending moments, ensuring the stability of excavations in Sabkha soils. The research highlights the need for further investigations into the cost-effectiveness of DSM walls in comparison to other excavation support options to evaluate the economic feasibility of using DSM in Sabkha soil applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the problem of significant post-construction settlement that may occur in a motor racing circuit (MRC), two representative composite foundation testing areas, PHC pile (pre-tensioned spun high-strength concrete pile) and CFG pile (cement fly ash gravel pile), were selected for field tests to obtain the deformation law of pile–soil. Then, finite element numerical simulation was used to carry out back analysis on the geological mechanical parameters of the testing areas. The results showed that the error of soil settlement between the piles in the PHC pile and CFG pile testing areas were 8.2% and 9.6%, respectively, with good inversion precision. The obtained geological mechanical parameters can be used to predict the settlement of the rest of the MRC. On this basis, a finite element numerical model was constructed to analyze the bearing and deformation characteristics of the foundation of the MRC under five types of working conditions that may cause significant post-construction settlement. It showed that the settlement of the embankment was large in the middle and small on both sides after the consolidation of the embankment. The maximum settlement was about 27.0 mm, and the maximum longitudinal uneven settlement ratio of the embankment was 1.3/4000. The axial force of piles in the PHC pile and CFG pile composite foundations increased first and then decreased with depth. The maximum bending moment was located at the foot of slopes or at the boundary of strata, which was relatively small in the middle of the embankment. The deformation of the embankment and the bearing capacity of the piles could meet engineering requirements. This study has certain guiding significance for the design and construction of similar pile-net composite foundations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic fragility assessment is the probability of damage exceeding a certain design limit. The dynamic performance of a combined multiple tunnel complex is less explored and requires thorough study. This research is based on the numerical approach to evaluate the damage caused to the two new types of tunnel complexes, i.e. twin and triple tunnel complexes in a soft soil profile. A two-dimensional (2D) finite element analysis is performed to determine the induced bending moments for each of the tunnel complexes and develop the seismic fragility curves. A set of full acceleration-time histories are applied to the soil–tunnel complex system by varying embedment depths in different soft soil profiles. From the results, it is concluded that increasing the embedment ratio results in an increased probability of tunnel damage. The developed fragility curves are also inter-compared for both the tunnel complexes to evaluate the better performer during a seismic event. This study serves as an initial step toward the guidelines to determine the percentage of incurred damage and design the combined multiple tunnel complex in a seismic-prone area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the supporting performance of oblique piles (OPs) used in pit excavation, a field test was performed at a foundation excavation using OPs with various inclination angles. Then, numerical models using the finite-element method were established and validated on the basis of the field test result. A novel arrangement of oblique‒vertical alternating piles (OVAPs) was proposed as the retaining structure for excavation. The displacements of the pile top, internal forces of the pile body, earth pressures on the pile body, and soil deformation were observed and studied. The results indicated that both pile inclinations and arrangements had an effect on the supporting performance of oblique piles. Furthermore, four effects were summarized to explain the advantages and working mechanisms of OP and OVAP arrangements used in retaining structures. Finally, a force analysis of oblique supporting piles in the foundation pit was conducted and a simplified formula was derived and applied to calculate the bending moments of pile bodies under different working conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides an efficient and robust numerical solution for the linear buckling analysis of tubular members, such as the supporting tower structures of wind turbines. The method uses Fourier‐series approximations for the displacement functions. Longitudinal discretization can optionally be applied, i.e., the member can be divided into segments. The strain‐displacement relationship directly considers the curved geometry. The implementation allows for arbitrary support conditions. Four pure loading situations are considered, uniform – in each segment – along the length: normal force, bending moment, torque, and shear force; however, they can arbitrarily be combined, as is commonly occurring in wind turbine towers. The applied methodology results in a computational advantage compared to the shell finite element method, while still maintaining much more generality and applicability compared with common analytical solutions. Furthermore, the method is supplemented with features, as spectral analysis and buckling length calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a study of the behavior of hybrid steel beams of I-profile cross section subjected to bending. Numerical models of finite elements were developed and validated in the ABAQUS software. In the models, lateral buckling with torsion was disregarded, since the beam will be laterally restrained, so that only local instabilities are present and thus evaluated. Analyses were divided into two stages: first, the elastic buckling analysis was carried out to obtain the critical buckling loads and the buckling modes of the beams; subsequently, analysis of the ultimate strength capacity of the beams was carried out considering residual stresses and initial imperfections. The numerical model was defined and a sensitivity study of the yield strength of the flange steel was carried out. The obtained results from the developed numerical model were satisfactory and, as expected, showed that the hybrid beams resist a greater bending moment effort when compared to their corresponding homogeneous beams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The main aim of the study is an assessment of models suitability for steel beams made of thin-walled cold-formed sigma profiles with respect to different numerical descriptions used in buckling analysis. The analyses are carried out for the sigma profile beam with the height of 140 mm and the span of 2.20 m. The Finite Element (FE) numerical models are developed in the Abaqus program. The boundary conditions are introduced in the formof the so-called fork support with the use of displacement limitations. The beams are discretized using S4R shell finite elements with S4R linear and S8R quadratic shape functions. Local and global instability behaviour is investigated using linear buckling analysis and the models are verified by the comparison with theoretical critical bending moment obtained from the analytical formulae based on the Vlasow beam theory of the thin-walled elements. In addition, the engineering analysis of buckling is carried out for a simple shell (plate) model of the separated cross-section flange wall using the Boundary Element Method (BEM). Special attention was paid to critical bending moment calculated on the basis of the Vlasov beam theory, which does not take into account the loss of local stability or contour deformation. Numerical shell FE models are investigated, which enable a multimodal buckling analysis taking into account interactive buckling. The eigenvalues and shape of first three buckling modes for selected numerical models are calculated but the values of critical bending moments are identified basing on the eigenvalue obtained for the first buckling mode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents experimental and numerical investigations on progressive collapse behavior of a two-story glulam frame when the side column is exposed to ISO834 standard fire. The collapse mechanism initiated by fire is identified. The experimental results show that the progressive collapse of a glulam frame could be described for three stages, namely bending effect stage, catenary effect stage and failure stage, respectively. These stages are discussed in detail to understand the structural behavior before and during collapse. It is demonstrated that the entire frame slopes towards the side of the heated column, and the "overturning" collapse occurs eventually. The catenary effect of beams is the main reason for the progressive collapse of the frame. In addition, a finite element model of a glulam frame is established to simulate the progressive collapse behavior. The effects of axial loads on the columns are summarized. The numerical simulation results agree well with the experimental results, which could verify the effectiveness and practicability of finite element simulation. Furthermore, the progressive collapse resistance of the frame in practical design were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The finite element analysis model is developed to investigate the bending capacity of the concrete-filled micro-steel-tube (CFMST) piles. First, the classical elastic-plastic model is employed to describe the constitutive relation of the steel material, while the plastic damage model is applied to portray the concrete material. Then, the three dimensional (3D) finite element numerical model for analyzing the flexural bearing capacity of the CFMST pile is established by virtue of the ABAQUS software. The reliability and accuracy of the present numerical model is carefully validated by comparing with the experimental data. The influence of the concrete strength grade, wall thickness of the steel tube, external diameter of the steel tube, and yield strength of the steel are analyzed in detail. It is shown that increasing the wall thickness/external diameter of the steel tube and the yield strength of the steel can greatly improve the flexural bearing capacity of the CFMST pile. Finally, a concise formula for the ultimate bending moment of the CFMST pile is proposed, which could be directly applied into the future engineering design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cofferdam method is generally applied in the construction of underwater pier foundation in bridge engineering, and the pouring of bottom sealing concrete is one of the important links in the construction of the cofferdam. The bottom sealing concrete can prevent water seepage and balance the main body of the cofferdam, and its structural size and construction quality have a great influence on the above functions. Under the condition of large water level difference, it is difficult to determine the reasonable thickness of the bottom sealing concrete. There are few related studies in this field, and there is a lack of systematic summary of calculation theory. This work theoretically deduces the approximate solution of ultimate bending moment and ultimate stress of the bottom sealing concrete, introduces two different calculation methods, systematically summarizes the calculation methods of three kinds of ultimate stress, analyzes the calculation methods of ultimate bonding force, and uses ANSYS finite element software to simulate a specific bottom sealing concrete model, and compares it with the theoretical calculation results. The maximum stress obtained by the approximate solution is closer to the actual monitoring data than the traditional method, and the calculation method of the bonding force can be used to make a rough estimate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retaining pile structure is commonly utilized in excavation maintenance design. In recent years, the long-short combined retaining piles have received more and more attention. According to the actual deep excavation engineering, the working mechanism of the long-short, long-double-short, and long-triple-short combined retaining piles was tested in the field. Based on the field test parameters, the finite element model of the test area was established and the simulation results were verified, and the effects of short pile length and pile spacing on bending moment, horizontal displacement of piles, surface settlement, and excavation bottom heave were further investigated. The results show that the bending moment of the long pile is larger than the short pile. The bending moment of the long pile and short pile increases gradually with the increase in the number of short piles. When the combination changes from combination 1 to 3, the peak moment of the long pile and short pile increases by 15.8% and 15.2%, respectively. The maximum displacement is near the pile top, combination 3 has the largest horizontal displacement, and the peak displacement of the long pile and the short pile is 17.21 mm and 17.87 mm, respectively, but almost no effect exists on the horizontal displacement below the excavation bottom. In addition, reducing short pile length and increasing pile spacing will increase bending moment and horizontal displacement of the long and short piles to a certain extent, and this phenomenon is mainly concentrated above the excavation bottom, the influence of short pile length and pile spacing on surface settlement and excavation bottom heave can be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The single pile is a structural element that has an important role in supporting any part of the superstructure. This paper adopted three dimensional finite element modelling by using ANSYS to discover the influence of soil size domain on pile diameter, pile length, load eccentricity and torsion magnitude. One type of soil was used and described by Drucker-Prager model. The numerical analysis has been performed to show how the variation in soil size domain effects on the behaviour of single pile under torsion load. The procedure which is adopted in the investigation depends on fixing all variables and changing one variable to show the impact of this variable on the pile response considering soil domain variation. From the investigation, it is obvious that the pile diameter, eccentricity and torsion load have a major influence on the pile response, while the pile length has a minor influence on the pile response. Here, the increase in pile diameter reduces the load transfer to the soil; also the increase in eccentricity increases the load transfer to the soil while the increase in soil domain reduces the pile response. When the torsion load increases the pile response increases too. The pile response refers to displacement, rotation, shear force and bending moment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to design and evaluate the detachable corner joints used in wooden furniture frames, including a commonly used detachable joint (control) form using mortise and tenon with plug reinforcement and three novel proposed joints, i.e., novel joint I ~ III, which adopted in-line doublehole nuts, metal sheet connector, and embedded nuts and screws respectively, via numerical and experimental methods. The numerical analysis results indicated that the optimal proposed joint (novel joint І) had good mechanical performance when subjected to bending load with proper stress distributions and relatively low maximum stress compared with the other two proposed joints. The experimental results showed that the bending load resistance of the control and the optimal proposed joints were 1920 N (0.14) and 4390 N (0.05), respectively. The bending moment capacity and bending stiffness of the optimal joints were remarkably higher than the bending moment capacity and bending stiffness of the control joint. In addition, the combination of the numerical and experimental methods could effectively simplify the steps of furniture connection design and development and save costs in terms of time and materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flat slab system has numerous benefits, and it is generally used in many several types of buildings, like shopping malls, hospitals, and offices. Buildings consisting of flat slabs must satisfy the requirements for connection to utilities, such as air conditioning or gas pipes lines. An opening in a structure causes an interruption in the natural load path. As a result, an imbalanced shear force and deflection will occur. When the opening is introduced, it will increase the effect of critical forces such as punching shears, deflections, and moments. This research carried out represents the numerical analysis and it was checked whether different shapes of openings and varying opening locations have an impact on the deflection and bending moment behaviour of flat slabs. The numerical analysis in this paper includes A and B Groups, and in addition, it is divided into three parts: without opening, square opening, and circular opening. Openings are placed parallel to a column's face. The size of openings considered in this study are 0.50 m x 0.50 m for a square opening, and 0.5642 m diameter for a circular opening. In order to conduct comprehensive parametric study, finite element analysis has been performed by using CSISAFE v16 based on IS 456:2000. The purpose of this investigation is to understand the behaviour of flat slabs with different opening shapes and with different opening positions from the column face. Based on the analysis, the study proposes various conclusions and recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buried pipelines are a vital infrastructure and are mainly used to transport energy carriers and other essential products. The pipes are generally buried in the upper layer of soil deposits and, therefore, are highly affected by different geo-environmental conditions. The various pathological cases recorded in the world are caused by the degradation of structures in contact with swelling soils, the fact that necessitates a full understanding and investigation of such a phenomenon. This paper presents a method for the pipeline behavior modeling based on the finite element analysis by using PLAXIS 3D software, aimed at the determination of the pipe bending moment, displacement over its length, and the evaluation of vertical stresses in soil under the pipe. A parametric study has been carried out to investigate the effect of the pipe burial depth and the soil cohesion. The finite-element results have been compared with experimental data from the literature. It was found that, unlike laboratory models, the numerical analysis can account for the internal pressure in the pipe and the depth of the pipe burial. The finite-element analysis showed that the presence of fluid pressure inside the pipe results in a decrease in the maximum swelling of the soil by about 95%. The displacement of the pipe is considerably affected by the burial depth. The vertical stress at one end of the pipe can be greater than that at the other end in the case of a pipe under internal pressure, while in the case of an empty pipe, the values are very close at both ends. The numerical analysis shows that an increase in the pipe internal pressure leads to a decrease in its vertical displacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is concerned with evaluating the response of single pile subjected to cyclic horizontal uniaxial loading. Combination of lateral cyclic loading and constant vertical or lateral load in two-orthogonal directions is also studied. Moreover, the influence of one- and two-way loading, number of cycles and the intensity of constant load in conjunction with the cyclic lateral load is presented. The study is further continued by comparing the performance of long and short single pile embedded in clayey soil. A series of three-dimensional finite element models using ANSYS code are conducted to model three-dimensional transient analysis as well as the complicated soil pile interaction. In order to verify the validity numerical model, the numerical response is compared with reported results obtained by experimental cyclic load test performed on single pile penetrated in soft clay. Results show strong coupling between the two-orthogonal direction of lateral loading that decreases the lateral pile capacity. The interaction relation of biaxial loading with the factor b = 1.2 and 1.15 for one- and two-way loading respectively may well approximate the analysis results. The results of study are presented in terms of lateral cyclic capacities, pile head deflection, displacement profile and bending moment over the pile length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Proper quantification of joint rotational stiffness (JRS) of a flight intersection joint (FIJ) influences the dynamic characteristics of a flight vehicle. • JRS of an FIJ is often determined experimentally due to the lack of a right predictive model. • An analytical model is proposed to evaluate the JRS of a radial-type FIJ when subjected to an external bending moment. • Numerical analyses and experiments are performed on six different FIJ configurations. • JRS and moment-rotation behavior predicted by the proposed model are correlated with both experimental and numerical analyses. • Further, the effect of joint clearances on the behavior of FIJ is investigated through the present model. Joint rotational stiffness (JRS) of a flight intersection joint (FIJ) and its accurate quantification play an essential role in studying the dynamic modal characteristics of a flight vehicle. This JRS of a FIJ is mostly determined through elaborate experiments due to the non-availability of a reliable predictive model. Therefore, in this paper, an analytical model is proposed to evaluate JRS of a radial type FIJ when subjected to external bending moment. In this model, at first, the tensile and compressive part of the FIJ section is identified by determining the neutral axis position. The respective part's contributing stiffness is then estimated by employing a spring-mass model. Later, the JRS expression is derived from the moment equilibrium condition and expressed as a function of the stiffness of the tensile and compressive part and neutral axis position. Subsequently, finite element analysis (FEA) is conducted with different numbers of screws, followed by detailed experimental investigations. The proposed analytical model is validated with the results from FEA and experiments for different screw configurations of FIJ. Further, the proposed model is extended to account for the effect of joint clearances on the JRS and the corresponding moment-rotation characteristics of the FIJ. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An innovative corrugated tube-rubber-concrete flexible joint (CTRCFJ) was proposed. • CTRCFJ without adding complexity to the structure and can bend and stretch/compress. • Buckling is reduced by 85.1% compared to the straight steel tube under reverse fault. • CTRCFJ is an effective mitigation method for permanent ground displacement. When water conveyance tunnels cross seismic fault fracture zones, significant deformation may occur, threatening the structural integrity of the tunnel. To resolve this problem, a novel corrugated tube–rubber–concrete flexible joint (CTRCFJ) for improving fault resistance is proposed for the first time. The effectiveness of the CTRCFJ was evaluated using advanced three-dimensional non-linear finite element analysis. The design parameters of the CTRCFJ, including rubber width, corrugated tube interval, and corrugated tube width, were selected based on the distribution of the axial bending moment of the lining structure. An orthogonal test was performed to determine the optimal combination of parameters. The effects of the number of crests, different steel grades, and wall thickness of the corrugated tube on the fracture resistance of the CTRCFJ are investigated. Results show that the CTRCFJ can effectively improve the dislocation resistance performance of composite lining water conveyance tunnels crossing reverse faults by reducing axial compression and bending strain. This study provides a reference for the structural design of composite lining structures that can cross reverse faults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presented a series of tests to investigate the behaviour of the extended end-plate connection utilizing high strength Q960 steel. A total of 8 specimens were tested, including two under ambient temperature and three under high temperature. The results of the tests indicated that increasing the end-plate thickness from 8 mm to 12 mm significantly enhances the flexural capacity and initial rotational stiffness of the connections but reduces the critical temperature and ultimate rotation. In addition, a higher beam bending moment ratio was found to increase the ultimate rotation of the connections while having minimal impact on the critical temperature. Then, the finite element model of the connections was established to investigate the parametric effect, including column axial pressure ratio, beam bending moment ratio, and end-plate thickness on fire resistance. The numerical analysis indicated that increased column axial pressure ratio and end-plate thickness decreased fire endurance, critical temperature, and ultimate rotation of the connections. On the other hand, increasing the beam-bending moment ratio enhanced the ultimate rotation of the connections. Lastly, a rotation-temperature relationship model was proposed to accurately predict the temperature-rotation curve of high-strength steel Q960 end-plate connections, which was validated with experimental data. • Fire tests on response of high strength Q960 steel connections were carried out. • Numerical models were developed to simulate the behaviour of Q960 teel connections at elevated temperatures. • Parametric studies were performed to investigate the effect of key factors on fire resistance of the connections. • A rotation-temperature relationship model was proposed to predict the fire behaviour of Q960 steel connections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the development of offshore wind power energy, the monopile-wheel composite foundation has attracted wide attentions from scholars as an innovative foundation for offshore wind turbines (OWTs). And in offshore engineering, the local scouring usually tends to weaken the bearing capacity by moving surrounding soil till even become a non-negligible reason for some engineering disasters. To explore this effect of local scour qualitatively and quantitatively, the scouring morphology of the monopile-friction wheel composite foundations under unidirectional flow are obtained by means of CFD. Then, a 3D finite element model is developed to estimate the bearing behaviors and deformation characteristics with the consideration of various scouring conditions. Both internal forces and failure envelopes under H-T combined loads are also obtained through numerical analysis. The results reveal that key scouring parameters significantly affect the bearing capacity and envelopes shrinkage of the composite foundation. In particular, the scouring depth has the greatest effect on lateral and torsional bearing behaviors of 15%–32% and 24%–58%, respectively, followed successively by the scouring angle and extent. And the loading point height has a noticeable impact on the lateral resistance of the composite foundation. The findings provide valuable insights into understanding the load bearing behaviors of composite foundations and their practical application in engineering. • Through CFD, the morphology of monopile-wheel composite foundations under unidirectional flow is simulated and the morphology is simplified to evaluate the local scour. • Through numerical simulations, the influence of key scouring parameters and different loading point heights on the bearing capacity for the monopile-friction wheel composite foundation is obtained. • The distribution of the bending moment and torque along the monopile is explored, taking into consideration different parameters. • The failure envelopes for the composite foundations under H - T combined loads with the consideration of key scouring parameters are also obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The undrained ultimate capacity to combined (M, V) loading of strip and square foundations on a two-layered clay deposit is investigated. Extensive two and threedimensional parametric finite element analyses are carried out in terms of the ratio of the undrained shear strength of two layers, the normalized thickness of the top layer and the normalized load eccentricity. Two basic cases are separately investigated, referring to strength ratios higher or lower than unity. The assumption of effective width of the foundations, to account for eccentricity, generally adopted for homogeneous soil, is extended for two layers. The results are mainly presented in terms of modified bearing capacity factors for strip or square footings for a wide range of dimensionless problem parameters. However, for a better visual understanding of how the bending moment affects the ultimate vertical load failure loci diagrams ("yield surfaces") in M, V space are also presented. Emphasis is given to developing insight into the particular failure mechanisms of most examined cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A novel precast segmental lining with a specific steel space truss was proposed. • The behavior of a novel lining was investigated experimentally and numerically. • The new lining's segmentation principle was determined. • The design parameters of lining joints were optimized. In recent years, precast segmental lining (PSL) has attracted much attention in tunnel engineering. In practice, the segmentation method is an essential consideration for PSL. This study proposes a novel PSL with a specific steel space truss. It uses physical and numerical modeling and considers three different segmentation principles in the experiments. In addition, this research develops an accurate three-dimensional finite element model, enabling a detailed analysis of the novel PSL. It also investigates the influence of joint thickness and stiffener on the novel PSL. The experimental results indicated changes in the lining's displacement, internal force, and failure mode. They revealed that cracks initially appear at the block joints. Considering the force and deformation of the lining, the method based on the maximum moment position principle is optimal because it can achieve the lowest deformation and bending moments. The numerical results showed that increasing the joint thickness or welding stiffeners raises the bending stiffness, reduces the joint opening, and decreases the plastic zone and strain value, thereby improving the joints' reliability. The findings are advantageous for the tunnel PSL design and can serve as a reference for joint optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A high-fill slope located in Zhenxiong County, Yunnan Province, China, was designed for building placement on its top platform. A reinforcement system consisting of a geogrid, front stability piles (FSPs), retaining sheets, prestressed anchors, and rear deeply buried piles (DBPs) has been used to stabilize the slope. Two typical slope sections were selected to study the high-fill slope stability and retaining mechanism of the reinforcement system. Field measurements of the horizontal displacement and strain in the piles, as well as the anchor working load, were collected and analyzed. In addition, a series of two-dimensional finite element method (FEM) analyses combined with a strength reduction technique was conducted to analyze two selected cross sections. The results show that the retaining structure behavior is closely related to the fill construction process of a high-fill slope. The deflection of the stabilizing pile increases almost linearly with the filling height in the initial stage of fill construction. The variation in the working load of the prestressed anchor shows an offset between prestress loss and increasing fill pressure. The FEM results can provide insight into the pile-soil interaction mechanism and its contribution to fill slope stabilization. The FSPs shift the sliding surface from through the slope toe to through the top of the FSPs. The anchors can reduce the bending moment by supplying additional bearing points. The DBPs can share a portion of the sliding thrust and effectively enhance the safety factor. This paper provides a reference for reinforcement system design for similar engineering projects considering high-fill slopes. Highlights • A case of reinforcement and monitoring for a high-fill slope is presented. • The reinforcement system includes two rows of piles, retaining sheets and anchors. • The behavior of the reinforcement system is investigated through field measurements. • The reinforcement mechanism is analyzed by FEM combined with monitoring. • This study provides a reference for the design of similar high-fill slopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to experimentally and numerically investigate the structural performance of speed-lock joints with split bolts in steel storage racks. There are no bolts in the typical speed-lock joint for its ease of installation, and the joint transmits and bears force through interactions of the tabs and upright beam holes. However, the joint under seismic loading shows large looseness and slippage with low stiffness. Also, the energy dissipation capacity is insufficient and the failure of tabs in the joints might lead to brittle behavior. In this study, new detail of the speed-lock joint with bolts is proposed by adding a pair of split bolts in the beam end plate while still preserving its merit of ease of installation. A double-cantilever beam test was designed to test this speed-lock joint with split bolts along with the typical speed-lock joint. Low cyclic loading tests were performed on both types of joints: with split bolts and without split bolts. The results revealed the benefits that the split bolts could bring to significantly enhance the performance of the joint in terms of the maximum bending moment, the initial stiffness, the displacement ductility coefficient, the equivalent viscous damping coefficient, and the energy consumption. In addition, a two-step analysis method was proposed for the high-fidelity finite element model of the joints to overcome the complex contact nonlinearity. The numerical model was then validated with the tests for further numerical studies on the performance of speed lock joints with/without bolts. • Experimental tests were designed and conducted on the typical speed-lock joint and proposed joint with added split bolts. • With split bolts, the joint has less slippage and looseness and effectively eliminates the brittle tab failure. • Speed-lock joints with split bolts possess an additional load bearing mechanism that improves the seismic performance. • Atwo-step analysis method was proposed for the finite element model of the joints to overcome the complex contact nonlinearity. • Stress distributions from experimental and numerical results reveal the joint's improved bearing mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An improved aluminium alloy gusset joint (I-AAGJ) with two types of shear connectors (SCs) and a peripheral bending system (PBS) is proposed to address traditional aluminium alloy gusset joint (T-AAGJ) imperfections. The mechanical performance of the I-AAGJ, including axial stiffness, in-plane and out-of-plane flexural stiffness, and ultimate bearing capacity, is investigated by full-scale testing under simplex and complex load states. Numerical simulation results of I-AAGJ behaviour are presented via nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA). Three-phase models are determined to explain the I-AAGJ deformation process. In the linear phase, PBS is proven to provide significant assistance for the joint bearing axial force and bending moment. By comparing with the T-AAGJ, an at least 30% improvement of joint stiffness along three directions can be observed respectively. In the nonlinear phase, SCs strengthen the joint by delaying plastic hinge formation and preventing gusset plates from being folded. The complex load state of lower level has a negligible impact on the I-AAGJ mechanical performance, while that of higher level still has to break through the protection of PBS and SCs before it destructs the joint. • An improved aluminium alloy gusset joint with two types of shear connectors and peripheral bending system is proposed. • Semi-rigid mechanical performance of the joint can be observed in both full-scale tests and numerical analysis. • The improved joint shows higher stiffness and bearing capacity along axial and in-plane and out-of-plane flexural directions. • Lower stiffness degradation will be caused by complex load states due to the assistance from the peripheral bending system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a numerical analysis of corrugated steel plate (CSP) bridge with reinforced concrete (RC) relieving slab under static loads. Calculations were made based on the finite element method using Abaqus software. Two computation models were used; in the first one, RC slab was used, and the other was without it. The effect of RC slab to deformations of CSP shell was determined. Comparing the computational results from two numerical models, it can be concluded that when the relieving slab is applied, substantial reductions in displacements, stresses, bending moments and axial thrusts are achieved. Relative reductions of displacements were in the range of 53–66%, and stresses of 73–82%. Maximum displacements and bending moments were obtained at the shell crown, and maximum stresses and axial thrusts at the quarter points. The calculation results were also compared to the values from experimental tests. The course of computed displacements and stresses is similar to those obtained from experimental tests, although the absolute values were generally higher than the measured ones. Results of numerical analyses can be useful for bridge engineering, with particular regard to bridges and culverts made from corrugated steel plates for the range of necessity of using additional relieving elements. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

• Evaluation of the initial stiffness of welded I-beam to RHS column connections loaded by in-plane bending moments though numerical models and the component method. • The finite element model was developed and validated with previous experimental tests. • The results of numerical parametric studies were compared with the equations of the component method existing in the literature. • Different formulations of the stiffness coefficient that represents the component "column face in bending" was evaluated and a revision of one formulation was proposed. This present paper evaluates the initial stiffness of welded I-beam to RHS column connections loaded by in-plane bending moments. Currently, there is a need to find mechanisms to satisfactorily determine the stiffness of these joints, due to the vast diversity of geometric characteristics. In this context, a numerical and theoretical study was carried out to obtain the initial stiffness through numerical finite element models and the component method. Thus, with a validated numerical model, 36 different connections were evaluated with column face failure and with variations in column thickness, beam flange width, and beam height. The initial stiffness results were obtained for the numerical models and compared with results calculated by the component method. The formulations available in the literature were considered, since the normative prescriptions still do not include formulations for tubular connections. The adopted springs model was described, composed of three components that correspond to the characteristic efforts of the connection: column face in bending, column lateral face in tension or compression and column lateral face in shear. The component "column face in bending" contributed mainly to the determination of the initial stiffness. In the current normative prescription, there are no equations for the stiffness coefficient of this component. Thus, three different formulations from the literature were evaluated. Finally, an adjustment was proposed to satisfactorily represent the evaluated component and the initial stiffness of the connections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The behaviour of a test embankment constructed on a soft clayey deposit in Saga, Japan, was simulated by both three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) finite element analyses (FEA). Floating soil–cement columns had been installed in the clay prior to construction of the embankment. Comparing the results of 3D and 2D FEA indicates that 2D analysis predicts incorrect results in terms of the lateral displacement and bending moment in the columns under the toe of the embankment. In the 2D analysis, the rows of columns were modelled by continuous walls, which partially block the interaction between the soil layers and the columns and influence the simulated lateral displacement and bending moment in the column. It has been postulated that compaction of fill material during the construction process has a significant influence on both the magnitude and pattern of the lateral displacement of the column under the toe of the embankment. Pragmatically, this influence can be indirectly simulated by reducing the stiffness and increasing Poisson’s ratio of the embankment fill material. Finally, both the measured and FEA results indicate that the columns not only reduced the total settlement but also accelerated the settlement rate of the deposit under the embankment loading, due to the much higher stiffness of the column material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The damage to pipelines from submarine landslides or debris flows has been vastly reported. In this paper, the behavior of pipelines is investigated through analytical and numerical analyses. A refined analytical method is first brought forward by improving the tension assumption. The pipeline is divided into different segments based on loading conditions, and the continuity of displacement, inclination angle, bending moment, and shear are all preserved. Then numerical analysis by vector-form intrinsic FEM is carried out by further considering the axial soil resistance at the sliding zone. The numerical analysis demonstrates that the initial negative pipeline displacement is a threat to pipeline safety because of the large increase in bending moment. The axial tension is closely related to the location of the landslide impact and the initial pipeline configuration. The variations in displacement and tension with time are also investigated in the parametric analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi-adhesive joints are an alternative stress-reduction technique for adhesively bonded joints. The joints have two types of adhesives in the overlap region. The stiff adhesive should be located in the middle and the flexible adhesive at the ends. This study is the extension of our previous paper to the von Mises stress evaluation and discusses the values and importance of the von Mises stresses in the bi-adhesive single-lap joint. Both analytical and numerical analyses were performed using three different bi-adhesive bondline configurations. The Zhao’s closed form (analytic) solution used includes the bending moment effect. In the finite element models, overlap surfaces of the adherends and the adhesives were modeled using surface-to-surface contact elements. The contribution levels of the peel and shear stresses for producing a peak von Mises stress are also studied. It is concluded that the contribution level of the shear stress at where von Mises stress becomes peak is more than that of the peel stress. Joint strength analyses were performed based on the peak elastic von Mises stresses. It is seen that joint strength can be increased using bi-adhesive bondline. The analytical and numerical results show that the appropriate bond-length ratio must be used to obtain high joint strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]