Data and results of predimensioning plate-to-plate joints obtained by the KinkJoint spreadsheet

A spreadsheet with graphical features has been developed to size the bolted extended plate-to-plate joints of rafters in polygonal portal frames. 

The graphical features of the spreadsheet are reflected in the diagram of the polygonal frame and the dimensioned drawing of the end-plate, with the position of the bolt holes.

The spreadsheet constantly shows the maximum and minimum spacing conditions of the bolts, both between them and between the bolts and the edges of the plate. As the position of the bolts, their diameter, or the thickness of the plate is modified, the spreadsheet provides the utilisation percentage in relation to the bending moments and the shear force.

A fixed control panel, permanently displayed in the upper-right corner of the interface during data input, continuosly reports key indicators:

• uttlisation ratios for positive/negative bending and shear,
• estimated joint rotational stiffness,
• recommended weld throat thicknesses with their utilisation ratios, and
• goberning failure modes for each bolt-row.