On the Modelling of “Fork” Supports Using geometrically Exact Thin‐walled Beam Finite Elements

AbstractThis paper discusses issues related to the modelling of so‐called “fork” supports using geometrically exact 3D thin‐walled beam finite elements whose rotations are parametrized using the rotation vector. This study is motivated by the fact that isolated members with “fork” supports are commonly employed in numerical and experimental studies, for the development of design rules for steel members. These supports are defined in the small displacement range, restraining the cross‐section in‐plane displacements and the torsional rotation of the beam (along the beam initial axis). This definition is usually extended to the large displacement case for beam finite element models, whereas in experimental tests and shell finite element models, a two‐axis gimbal‐type support is used instead. This paper thus aims at (i) showing how the two‐axis gimbal support may be modelled using beam elements which are based on a rotation vector parametrization of finite rotations and (ii) highlighting the differences between the two support types. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the differences, which are quite significant for moderate‐to‐large displacements, but do not seem to affect the collapse load of standard steel members.