MDX Software - FAQ #19
How can a diaphragm brace be overstressed when it is
connected to the connection plates with only a few bolts on the web?
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The program assumes full continuity between bracing and girders, which of course
is appropriate for diaphragm bracing that is moment connected. (This also is
appropriate for cross frames because, even though the individual members are
pin connected, the cross frame as a unit behaves as if it is moment connected.)
The approach to representing diaphragm bracing as pinned connected to the girder
is to define the diaphragm bracing in terms of section properties (GROUPI and
GROUPJ data) with near-zero values, say 0.01.