Behavior appraisal of steel semi-rigid joints using Linear Genetic Programming

This paper proposes an alternative approach for predicting the flexural resistance and initial rotational stiffness of semi-rigid joints in steel structures using Linear Genetic Programming (LGP). Three types of steel beam-column joints i.e. endplates, welded, and end bolted joints with angles are investigated. Models are constructed by utilizing test results available in the literature. The accuracy of the proposed models is verified by comparing the outcomes to the experimental results. LGP models are further compared to the corresponding design code (Eurocode 3), reference values and several existing models. The results demonstrate that the LGP based models in most cases provide superior performance than other models. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.