Performance-Based Structural Analysis and Design

Summary of Activities

The behaviour-based design in steel structures is a new concept and technology recently allowed for use in codes and by the authorities. The method is based on the actual response of a structure under ultimate or serviceability limit loads and design is completed simultaneously with analysis ; we just need to inspect the safety or damage of our structures under stimulated loads in stead of using approximate design code formulae. The output is more accurate, safer and economical since we will not over-design some members but under-design others. It is more efficient since we can skip the design check to code requirements, which are completed by the software. The method is detailed in Chapter 6 of the Code of Practice for Structural Uses of Steel 2005 and has been used in a number of prestigious projects in Hong Kong and overseas.

Tests and computer simulation for this direction have been researched for the past 2 decades since 1987 and the method has been applied to numerous projects successfully. For detailed job references, please contact the responsible researcher. Technological Services provided include the following:

  • Design of steel and steel-concrete composite structures using advanced nonlinear analysis methods for steel frames
  • Large deflection analysis of glass and aluminium panels
  • Second-order analysis of steel scaffolds
  • Optimisation of weight by nonlinear analysis and by member size re-allocation
     

Representative Projects

Second-order and advanced analysis and design of steel towers made of members with angle cross-section – 2007-2008

Advanced analysis for progressive collapse and robustness design of steel structures – 2006-2007

Advanced analysis of steel frames and trusses of non-compact sections using the deteriorating plastic hinge method - 2005-2006


Major Facilities

  • Loading frames for scaled and full-scaled testing of steel and scaffolds in Structural Engineering laboratory
  • User friendly economical and efficient second-order analysis of steel frames by section capacity check without assuming an effective length, NIDA, which was approved for practical uses by relevant authorities and licensed to universities in Australia, mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and U.K. and companies in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Trial, education, professional and specialist versions are available. 

Selected Publications

1.         Chan, S.L. and Zhou, Z.H. (1995) “Second order analysis of frame using a single imperfect element per member”, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE, 121(6): 939-945.

2.         Chan, S.L. and Chui, P.P.T. (2000) “Non-linear Static and Cyclic analysis of semi-rigid steel frames”, Elsevier Science, pp.336.

3.         Chan, S.L. and Zhou, Z.H. (2004) “Elastoplastic and large deflection analysis of steel frames by one element per member, Parts 1 and 2”, Journal of Structural Engineering, ASCE, 130(4): 538-553.

4.         Chan, S.L., Huang, H.Y. and Fang, L.X. (2005) “Advanced analysis of imperfect portal frames with semi-rigid base connections”, Journal of Applied Mechanics, ASCE, 131(6): 633-640.

5.          Chan, S.L. (2007) “Concept and application of member-based linear and system-based nonlinear analysis in steel structure design”, keynote lecture in 3rd International Conference on Steel and Composite Structures, Manchester, 30 July to 1 August, proceedings edited by Y Wang and C K Choi, pp.67-76.

6.         Chan, S.L. and Peng, J.L. (2007) “Advanced stability design of scaffolding systems by notional force and by buckling mode as imperfection mode methods”, Keynote lecture, Steel and Aluminum Structures, ICSAS’07, edited by R.G. Beale, 24-27 July, Oxford, U.K., pp.52-29.

7.         Chan, S.L., Zhou, Z.H. and Liu Y.P. (2008) “Codified design of pre-tensioned glass supporting truss systems”,  HKIE/IStructE Joint Structural Division, Annual Seminar 2008, Proceedings of Innovative Light-weight Structures and Sustainable Facades, 7 May 2008, Convention Centre, Hong Kong. pp.39-49.

8.         Chen, W.F. and Chan, S.L. (2006) “Advanced Analysis – from Theory to Practice”, Keynote Lecture, XI International Conference Metal Structures, June 21-23, 2006, Rzeszów, Poland.

Contact Information of the contact person

Prof. Siu-Lai Chan
Department of Civil & Structural Engineering
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Kowloon, Hong Kong

Fax:     + 852 - 2334 6389
Phone:   + 852 - 2766 6047
E-mail:  ceslchan@polyu.edu.hk

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