The Hoan Detail

[ElpisMaximus]

I am looking at the failure of Hoan bridge (2000) and I repeatedly see "Hoan detail" being mentioned. I understand this is a gusset plate connection that led to the failure of Hoan bridge, but I am unsure what it is exactly. What connections characterizes as a Hoan detail? Do we still use them? Direct answers and links to learn more is appreciated.

 

[Enable]

Never heard of this until you posted it. Here's a link that provides some detail. From a cursory review it looks like the detail experienced a brittle fatigue failure due to unintentional localized rigidity in the joint. Seems like a reduced gap between web elements due to fabrication tolerances led to intersecting welds (instead of weld on ductile plate) which was determined to be a major factor.

Read a bit more down the page. This is a good pic.