Abstract
The behavior of offset beam-to-column connection panels with exterior diaphragms under axial load is examined by using finite element analysis in this paper. In the analysis, seven cruciform subassemblages tested in the previous study are simulated and the models are validated by comparing numerical results with experimental data. Parameters used in this analytical study are width-to-thickness ratio, applied axial load on the column, difference between beam depths at both sides of the connection panel and the collapse mechanisms of connections. Accuracy of the proposed strength calculation formulae are investigated and collapse mechanisms of the connection are identified. Major findings are as follows: 1) the assumed collapse mechanisms coincide with the experimental results; 2) Stiffness and strength of the connection panels can be properly evaluated by the proposed formulae with the axial force ratio equal to or less than 0.5.
