Development of an optimized moment-connection joint for pultruded profiles

Resumo

The present work aims the development of a novel optimized beam-column moment connection for
pultruded profiles that is characterized by an efficient shape able to transfer load between members due to contact
and friction. To accomplish this task, the work will be divided in two major stages: i) stress analysis via finite
element model; and ii) topology optimization. In the former step, a reference joint geometry will be pre-designed
and stress trajectories are obtained for a given load using software Abaqus. Then, the joint shape is optimized
using a topology optimization technique available in the software package. During the study, stresses are evaluated
and the behavior of both optimized and original joints are compared in the elastic range. This work is part of an
ongoing investigation on the development of novel 3D-printed solutions for joints.