W-Section Branch to HSS Chord Connection Design

[agostage]

I'm looking to design a moment connection where a W-section is directly welded to the side of a HSS tube. I've looked in the AISC Hollow Structural Sections Connections Manual and they seem to only have guides where the W-section is welded to a HSS column, at an orientation 90 degrees from what I'm looking for. The W-section and HSS section have the same height so that the flange sits flush with the wall of the HSS chord.

I'm inclined to assume the side wall of the HSS is flexible and that the forces will travel from the flanges through the flare bevels into the top and bottom walls of the HSS tube.

Any advice on which limit states to check or know of any guide that may help?

 

[jike]

I am somewhat confused by your description. Can you draw a sketch and post it?

 

[agostage]

Attached is an image illustrating my question.