On the Effective Length of Compression Members in Double-Layer Grids

Abstract

Attention is focused on the effective length of compression members in double-layer grids. An attempt to account for the end fixity resulting from various types of employed jointing systems and the effect of other members meeting at the same joint is made. A theoretical model for calculating the effective length is presented and is applied to a wide-range of cases. The goal is to suggest using this model for assessing the effective length of compression members in double-layer grids and to make recommendations for various effective length factors for a wide range of practical cases which would then increase the efficiency of designs that are presently based on conservative estimates.