# Steel Gusset Plate Designer AI Agent Connect

> Design structural gusset plate connections using Whitmore section and block shear analysis.

## Overview
- **Category:** construction
- **Price:** Free
- **Endpoint:** https://edge.vinkius.com/vk_preview_AGSrm0exUxu12Cog7bBnQwndwYvz5wKCRk1MnrR7/ai-agent-connect
- **Tags:** steel, gusset-plate, structural-engineering, whitmore-section, block-shear

## Description

This MCP server provides structural engineering tools to design gusset plate connections. It calculates required plate thickness to prevent buckling, determines physical dimensions using Whitmore section analysis, and specifies both bolt layouts and weld requirements. The tools account for eccentricity and interaction effects to ensure safe force transfer between brace members and supporting structures.

## Tools

### determine_plate_dimensions
Calculates the necessary width and height of the gusset plate

### calculate_plate_thickness
Determines the minimum required thickness of the gusset plate

### calculate_weld_requirements
Determines the size and length of welds needed

### design_bolt_layout
Specifies the number, diameter, and spacing of bolts required

## Prompt Examples

**Prompt:** 
```
Calculate the required thickness for a gusset plate with a 500kN brace force, 30 degree angle, S355 steel, and 50mm eccentricity.
```

**Response:** 
```
The required plate thickness is 14.5 mm, with a capacity utilization of 0.82. Buckling is not critical at this thickness.
```

**Prompt:** 
```
What are the dimensions needed for a gusset plate with 400kN force at a 45 degree angle and a 200mm beam width?
```

**Response:** 
```
The required plate dimensions are 250 mm in width and 320 mm in height, providing a Whitmore width of 185 mm.
```

**Prompt:** 
```
Design a bolt layout for a 300kN force on a 12mm thick plate using S355 steel and 20mm bolts with 40mm edge distance.
```

**Response:** 
```
The connection requires 4 bolts in a rectangular pattern with 75 mm spacing.
```

## Frequently Asked Questions

**How does the tool handle plate buckling?**
The `calculate_plate_thickness` tool evaluates local buckling stability by considering the axial force, steel grade, and eccentricity to ensure the plate remains stable under load.

**Can I design both bolted and welded connections?**
Yes. You can use `design_bolt_layout` to determine bolt patterns and spacing, or `calculate_weld_requirements` to find the necessary weld size and length.

**What is the Whitmore section used for?**
The Whitmore section is used by `determine_plate_dimensions` to calculate the effective width of the gusset plate, ensuring the physical dimensions can safely carry the brace force.