Tapered Beam and Column Elements in Unbraced Frame Structures

Abstract

An analytical computer study on the lateral behavior of unbraced framed structures having linearly tapered beam and column elements is presented. Because of their structural efficiency, particularly the high stiffness to mass ratio, tapered elements are desirable in seismic and wind design. The 6‐DOF stiffness matrix as well as the equivalent nodal loads for a linearly varying‐depth rectangular beam element are presented in an explicit form. The effects of taper on the lateral stiffness, strength, and dynamics of beams and frames are discussed. In addition, the structural benefits and disadvantages of tapered members are compared with those of prismatic ones.