This three-dimensional web-based model viewer allows students to view and interact with a collection of steel connections using their smartphones or web browser. Students can view the connection, examine different limit states in action, and review the related design drawings and calculations. 

This tool can be incorporated into introductory structural steel design courses as a visual aid to accompany a traditional lecture or as a resource for students outside the classroom. It was designed for use on desktop computers (e.g., for projection to a screen) as well as mobile devices for students who wish to control the rotation and zoom themselves.

The current collection includes:

Tension members

• Double Angle Brace Connection
• Slotted HSS Connection
• WT Bolted Connection
• Wide-Flange Truss Connection

Buckling modes (New!)

• Wide Flange Columns
• I-shaped Plate Girder
• Square HSS
• Double Angle

(2021)

Link: AISC Model Viewer

Video Overview (2021)

Presented by the developer, this short video provides an overview of the two collections and suggestions for implementation in a steel course.

Webinar Recording (2020)

This webinar provides a comprehensive summary of the collection for tension members, as well as a discussion of best practices for implementation in a steel course.

Webinar Handouts

Web-based 3D Model Viewer for Illustrating Concepts in Structural Steel (2 slides per page)
Web-based 3D Model Viewer for Illustrating Concepts in Structural Steel (4 slides per page)