Abstract:

The 1994 Northridge Earthquake highlighted the need for comprehensive full scale testing of moment frame connections.  Since then hundreds of tests have been completed in order to study and confirm the complex behaviors these important joints have when going through inelastic deformations. This presentation will highlight some of the reasons these tests are completed and some of the lessons learned.  Included in the presentation will be actual video and photographs of recent SidePlate Moment Frame tests completed at UCSD as well as blast tests performed in New Mexico.  Lastly, the presentation will outline how a testing protocol is developed and how testing can help in advancing the engineering methods designers use.

Ryan Smith, S.E. the Western Regional Business Manager for SidePlate Systems, Inc.

Ryan Smith is a licensed Structural Engineer in California. He is the Western Regional Business Manager for SidePlate Systems, specializing in seismic connection design. Ryan obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, CA. He obtained his Master’s Degree in Structural Engineering from the University of California, Irvine. Ryan recently served on the Board of Directors for the Structural Engineer’s Association of Southern California (SEAOSC) and remains active in the organization.