The Optimised Sliding Hinge Joint (OSHJ): Design, Detail, and Implementation in Practice

Abstract

The Optimised Sliding Hinge Joint (OSHJ) is a low-damage, resilient, versatile, and cost effective seismic resisting system developed primarily for Moment Resisting Steel Framed (MRSF) buildings. The OSHJ is the optimized version of the Sliding Hinge Joint (SHJ) with Asymmetric Friction Connections (AFCs). The OSHJ is an accurate and precise system that imposes no damage on the structural members (e.g. beams and columns) during a severe seismic event, dissipates large amount of severe earthquake induced energy through friction in the AFCs, exhibits dynamic self‐centering of the building, and retains over 90% of the initial strength and stiffness of the system following a severe seismic event and over the life time of the building with no need to inspect, retighten, or replace the friction sliding components. To achieve this, one of the key components introduced in the OSHJ are the partially deflected Belleville Springs (BeSs) which must be appropriately designed, manufactured, and installed to fit the purpose. This paper presents an explanation on the SHJ seismic behaviour as well as the advantages of the OSHJ in addition to those of the SHJ. The design, detail, and installation approaches of the OSHJ are also briefly outlined. Finally, application of the OSHJ in three resilient multi-storey buildings is covered.