• Journal of Korean Society of Steel Construction
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• v.20 no.5
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• pp.633-644
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• 2008

The structural framework design uses high-strength bolts and welding in column splices. However, for the column under high compression, the number of the required high-strength bolts can be excessive and the increase of welding results in difficulty of quality inspection, the transformation of the structural steels, and the increase of erection time. According to the AISC criteria, when columns have bearing plates, or they are finished to bear at splices, there shall be sufficient connections to hold all parts securely in place. The Korean standard sets the maximum 25% of the load as criteria. Using direct contact makes it possible to transfer all compressive force through it. The objective of this study is to examine the generally applied stress path mechanism of welded or bolted columns and to verify the bending moment and compression transfer mechanism of the column splice according to metal touch precision. For this study,22 specimens of various geometric shapes were constructed according to the change in the variables for each column splice type, which includes the splice method, gap width, gap axis, presence or absence of splice material, and connector type. The results show that the application of each splice can be improved through the examination of the stress path mechanism upon metal contact. Moreover, the revision of the relative local code on direct contact needs to be reviewed properly for the economics and efficiency of the splices.

• Journal of Biomedical Engineering Research
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• v.25 no.5
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• pp.361-367
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• 2004

The axial compressive strength, relative 3-D stability and osteoconductive shape design of an intervertebral fusion cage are important biomechanical factors for successful intervertebral fusion. Changes in the stress distribution of the vertebral end plate and in cage stability due to changes in the spike shape of a newly contrived box-shaped fusion cage are investigated. In this investigation, the initial contact of the cage's spikes with the end plate and the penetration of the cage's spikes into the end plate are considered. The finite element analysis is conducted to study the effects of the cage's spike height, tip width and angle on the stress distribution of the vertebral end plate, and the micromigration of the cage in the A-P direction. The stress distribution in the end plate is examined when a normal load of 1700N is applied to the vertebra after inserting 2 cages. The micromigration of the cage is examined when a pull out load of l00N is applied in the A-P direction. The analysis results reveal that the spike tip width significantly influences the stress concentration in the end plate, but the spike height and angle do not significantly influence the stress distribution in the end plate touching the cage's spikes. In addition, the analysis results show that the micromigration of the cage can be reduced by adjusting the spike angle and spike arrangement in the A-P direction. This study proposes the optimal shape of an intervertebral fusion cage, which promotes bone fusion, reduces the stress concentration in a vertebral end plate, and increases mechanical stability.