Uniform Force Method for Truss Connections

[RFreund]

This is a relatively simple question I believe...
Simply stated - is it common to use the Uniform force method for the design of truss connections?

My question stems from a few locations:
1. In the AISC manual they discus the uniform force method in chapter 13. They also discus truss connections in this chapter but do not reference the uniform force method when discussing panel point connections or support connections. In the "Design Checks" section they only discuss bolts (ch 7), welds (ch 8), and connecting elements (ch 9).

2. In the AISC design examples chapter IIC Bracing and Truss Connections, they use the uniform force method for the bracing connections, but do not use it for any of the truss connection examples. In example II.C-4 there is no gusset plate, the members are directly fastened to the chords, but could the same UFM concepts apply to the webs of the chords?

Thanks in advance!

EIT

http://www.HowToEngineer.com

 

[structSU10]

Yes it is. AISC design guide 29 does an example at a truss using the UFM. I have used it for trusses a number of times, and sent a few questions to AISC about specific issues I had, and they never said it was an inappropriate way to analyze the situation.

 

[amec2004]

For the same connections, they behave the same way when it's in truss or in some where else.

I don't see any reason why UFM is not used in truss connections.

UFM is needed when eb and ec are significant, such cases as gusset connects to w shape flange where eb or ec = 0.5d

UFM is still applicable, but not that much different compared to decomposing brace axial force Vx =F sin(a), Vy =F cos(a) manually when gusset connects to w shape web where eb or ec = 0.5tw and close to 0.

As such, when gusset connects to w shape web such as horizontal brace, or chevron brace, vertical brace to base plate, and knee brace case, you can just do Vx =F sin(a), Vy =F cos(a) manually and the result is almost the same when you do UFM

AISC Steel Connection Design Software

http://asp.civilbay.com/connect