An Experimental Study of the Hysteresis Model of the Kanchuang Frame Used in Chinese Traditional Timber Buildings of the Qing Dynasty

Kanchuang frames are important parts of traditional timber architecture in China. This paper used experimental and numerical methods to study the restoring force model of Kanchuang frames, which were used frequently in Chinese ancient timber structures, particularly in North China. The prototyped test model is a type of Chinese traditional timber architecture named Qilinyingshan. It was widely used in ancient timber buildings preserved from the Ming and Qing dynasties. This study analyzed the loading process and failure modes of the test model, and the skeleton curve and hysteretic curve data were collected. Moreover, a dimensionless skeleton curve model was developed based upon the findings. The hysteresis loops of the test model were also analyzed, and it was found that each hysteresis loop can be divided into several feature segments according to their stiffness at different loading stages. Regression analysis was also used to obtain the stiffness degradation curvilinear equations of the feature segments. Finally, a hysteresis force model of a Kanchuang frame was established. This study also found that the loading process can be divided into three stages: the elastic stage, in which all of the components are in good condition; the elastic–plastic stage, in which cracks gradually develop on the wall; and the new elastic–plastic stage, after which the wall collapses. It was found there was consistency between the restoring force model and the test results, indicating that the model is valid and reliable. The skeleton curve model and hysteretic model provide reference for the nonlinear seismic response of ancient timber architecture.

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