A conceptual study of a self-centering semi-rigid connection with energy dissipation for wooden frames

Abstract A proposal of a semi-rigid self-centering connection for the seismic protection of wooden structures is studied. An analytical model for the characterization of the response of the connection is developed. Quasi-static tests of a wooden column with the proposed connection allowed to validate the model and calibrate its parameters, obtaining errors smaller than 6% between analytical prediction and experimental results. The self-centering capacity and the effectiveness of the connection to limit the loads transmitted to the connected elements were evidenced. Damped free vibration tests evidenced the capacity of the connection to reduce structural vibrations. It was verified that the resistance and dissipation capacity of the connection can be modified by two design parameters that can be adjusted at the assembly. The proposed connection has desirable characteristics for its use in the protection of structural wooden frames, is versatile, and its design is simple, with explicit physical parameters.