Zero length and panel zone

[afakhimi]

Hi
I want to model a steel frame .
If I use Joint2D command for modeling panel zone, I have to define zero length in 4 node or not?
Joint2D command is: element Joint2D $eleTag $Nd1 $Nd2 $Nd3 $Nd4 $NdC <$Mat1 $Mat2 $Mat3 $Mat4> $MatC $LrgDspTag
It is correct that <$Mat1 $Mat2 $Mat3 $Mat4> define spring material but if I want to model RBS then I have to define zero length in offset of face column for beam (with Joint2D).[ it isn't want to define for column]?

[vesna]

Yes, to define RBS connection you will probably need to offset the spring from the face of the joint.

Joint2D element is developed to simulate behavior of RC connections. Make sure it is applicable to your problem. Here is an example with the steel panel zones: http://opensees.berkeley.edu/wiki/index ... es_and_RBS