A simplified model of a reinforced square hollow section T-joint for stress evaluation in bus superstructures

Abstract

This study aims to create a simplified model of a reinforced square hollow section (SHS) T-joint found in bus superstructures. The approach is to use a combination of one- and two-dimensional finite element models to represent a reference three-dimensional finite element model of the joint and determine stress correction factors as functions of the geometrical variables of the joint. This approach requires the stiffness of the simplified model to be equivalent to that of the reference model. By using a stiffness error function and a three-factor design of experiment (DOE), the best of four trial models, with minimum average stiffness error, was identified. The stress correction factors were then determined under static in-plane bending loads. A polynomial regression model was used to construct the relationship between the stress correction factors and the thickness-to-width ratios of the joint. The correlation coefficient of 0.9845 indicated a strong relationship and the t score confirmed its significance.