definition
strict definition
rigid frame
A framing system whose moment-resisting joints help the framework resist distortion.
Pictured: Hartford Plaza North
A rigid frame is a simple framework which uses strong joints to resist distortion.
The joints resist relative rotation between connected members and transmit bending moments. The members and their connections therefore work together to resist distortion; strong members joined by freely rotating connections do not provide the same frame action.
A trussed frame uses diagonal braces, while a shear wall resists forces in the plane of a wall. Frame action can also work together with a wall in a shear wall plus frame system. The rigid-frame principle does not impose a fixed story limit.
rigid frame Photos
Related definitions
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bundled tube
A system in which multiple tube structures are clustered together for greater strength. -
buttressed core
A framing system with a strong central core reinforced by shear walls or other rigid elements radiating from it. -
core plus outrigger
A framing system in which a rigid core is tied to the perimeter with sturdy horizontal beams. -
framed tube
A system which resists lateral forces through a tightly interlocked perimeter frame. -
shear wall
A structural system using rigid vertical walls to resist distortion under lateral forces. -
shear wall plus frame
A system in which a strong slab wall acts in concert with strong joints to stabilize the frame. -
space truss
A three-dimensional truss with diagonal connections outside a single plane, used to resist lateral forces. -
superframe
A system in which multiple framed tubes are connected by horizontal framed trusses. -
trussed frame
A framework whose intersecting vertical and horizontal members are reinforced by one or more series of diagonal braces. -
trussed tube
A system in which the perimeter walls act as a rigid tube and are reinforced by vertical trusses. -
tube-in-tube
A system which combines an exceptionally strong perimeter frame with a similar tube at the core.