Design and Comparative Analysis of a Novel Intra-Modular Bolted Joint for Prefabricated Modular Buildings

The present study discusses the design and comparative structural performance of a new intra—modular bolted joint. The proposed joint is modeled in IDEA StatiCa in accordance with Indian Building Codes (IS 800:2007) and has been compared with two standard bolted joint configurations – American (AISC LRFD 2022) & European (EN 1993-1-8) – for maximum stress in plates, maximum strain values, zones of failure, weld & bolt utilization and cost of fabrication. The three joints have been designed using similar materials & comparable sections and have been subjected to the same loading conditions, as would be expected in a single modular structure, to ensure uniformity in the comparative analysis. The results highlight the structural integrity of the new joint and its superior performance, thereby making it an adoptable option for Indian modular construction.