Geometrically symmetric struts with balanced vs. unbalanced loads on a column 1

[GearsNsparks]

1. When designing columns with symmetric struts attached (see attachment) and assuming the tributary span A = tributary span B, do engineers still design for a shear load imbalance on the column due to fabrication imperfections?

2. When tributary span A > span B, is it reasonable to assume the imbalance lateral load on the column is picked up by the Strut B and pushed into the truss or does the column take the load with no impact to strut B? The real world probably has some element of the load taken by the column and some by strut B proportional to the stiffness.

Thanks for your considerations,

 

[KootK]

do engineers still design for a shear load imbalance on the column due to fabrication imperfections?

I wouldn't but only because I would be considering some kind of pattern loading which I'd expect to dwarf the impact of the imperfection stuff.

The real world probably has some element of the load taken by the column and some by strut B proportional to the stiffness.

That exactly. I definitely wouldn't assume that all of the load went one place or the other unless there was a significant difference in relative stiffness to justify that. Conceptually, this system is similar to if you simply had the columns and trusses all moment connected at the common joint.


I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[hokie66]

I wouldn't be using those knee braces for gravity loading, but rather for lateral forces only.