Abstract

In this paper, the connection behavior of a particular configuration of a brace system, which is used in seismic areas, is investigated. This system which is called Gate Brace SYSTEM (GBS) consists of six members that are symmetrical and the diagonal member is not straight; it is connected to the corner of the frame by the third member. This system improves the energy dissipation due to earthquakes as well as its eccentricity allowing more openings for the architects. In this paper, some common types of this brace system which has been used in many parts of Iran is investigated, also, a comparison between the behavior of different common construction types of this system is done and some recommendations for improving the behavior of these systems are proposed. In order to examine this system behavior, ANSYS, which is a well known finite element software is used. The investigation results indicate that by increasing the rigidity of mid connection of brace elements, the stiffness of the system dramatically increases. Moreover, for increasing this rigidity some methods are proposed.

Key words: Brace, buckling, seismic, earthquake.