A haunch is often added to beams or columns in structural models to increase strength or stiffness at critical locations, such as at supports or connections. Below are detailed step by step guide to modelling haunches on a Portal Frame in Prokon Frame Analysis.

Steps to Add a Haunch in Prokon Frame Analysis

Follow these steps to define and assign a haunch in a model:

• Launch the Frame Analysis module
  • Open Prokon and navigate to Frame Analysis Module.
  • Import an existing structural model or create a new model from scratch.

• Define Tapered Section
  • Navigate to the Input tab> Input Type Panel > Beam Sections
  • In the next available row, under the Section Name, type Haunch

• Specify the Geometry
  • Open the Section Properties Table to define the Haunch’s geometry

• In the Section Database Dialog, enable the Haunch option
• Enter The Haunch Depth (e.g. 0.3m)
• In the dialogue, go to steel tab> I-section and select the section for the haunch from the database. (e.g. 305x165x40)

• Confirm Section Properties:
  • Ensure the section properties reflect:
    • The Haunch depth
    • The section dimensions
    • Other relevant parameters (e.g. material properties)

• Assign the Haunch to a Beam Element
  • Navigate to Input Tab> Beam
  • Enter the Beam Element where the haunch is required
  • Assign the “Haunch” section to this beam.
  • Visualize the tapered section in the 3D Model to confirm that the Haunch geometry matches the design intent.

By defining and assigning haunches in Prokon Frame Analysis, engineers can enhance the structural performance of critical regions in beams and columns. With careful attention to section properties and placement, haunches can effectively improve strength, stiffness, and load resistance in structural models.

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