Eccentric connection design: Geometric approach

A noniterative and conservative method is developed to predict the ultimate capacity of eccentrically loaded steel connections. The method is based upon the inelastic behavior of the connectors and the geometry of the connection. This geometric approach can be used to analyze connections with skewed loads, arbitrary connection geometries, and varying bolt sizes. A simple interaction equation is developed so that connections with both high and low eccentricities may also be analyzed. Comparisons between these methods, experimental test results, and the ultimate strength method currently used in the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) design manuals are given. Results of the interaction equation and the geometric method are within a few percent of experimental test data and are closer than the ultimate strength method, without the need of an iterative approach. Several design examples reveal that the maximum results from the geo­metric approach and the interaction can be used in design.