Development of an innovative module-to-core wall connection for steel-framed modular high-rise buildings

Module-to-core wall connection for assembling modules to the core wall system plays a key role in transferring loads in modular high-rise buildings. However, its mechanical mechanisms are not systematically understood. This study proposes an innovative module-to-core wall connection, which could be installed and detached with good feasibility and efficiency during construction and detachment processes. The roles that module-to-core wall connections play in steel-framed modular high-rise buildings are discussed. The hysteretic behaviors, stiffness deterioration, energy dissipation and failure process of the connection against cyclic load are investigated, and resistances of the connection against extreme loads are examined. Parametric analyses are conducted to study influences of strengths of critical components on resistance of the proposed connection. Results show that the proposed connection has good mechanical behaviors against cyclic load and has sufficient resistances against extreme loads. The connection behaves within an elastic range during the working stage and has good vibration isolation capability. The failure of the connection subjected to cyclic load is caused by the fracture of the end of beams, while those subjected to extreme loads are governed by fractures of connector assembly and bolts. Finally, a series of design equations is proposed to predict resistances of the module-to-core wall connection with good accuracy. The present study provides useful references for the application of module-to-core wall connection in steel-framed modular high-rise buildings.