Numerical study on modular slab–column steel structure based on simplified integrated floor

Abstract

In spite of the high clear height and the convenient pipeline arrangement, the application of slab–column structures is still limited especially given the development trend of prefabricated steel structures. Therefore, an innovative modular slab–column steel structure is introduced to achieve advantages in architecture, structural performance, as well as prefabrication. First, the deformation mode and working mechanism of the integrated floor module are investigated based on cooperative deformation principle through theory and finite element analyses. Then, the principle is adopted again to obtain a simplified floor model. On the basis of the simplified floor, a series of building models are established and parametric analyses are conducted. The results indicate that the slab thickness and the size of columns may play different roles for the structures under gravity loads or lateral loads. Finally, the potential application scope of MSCSS is further discussed and some design recommendations are also proposed.