An Assessment of the Joint Factor as Used in the Modified MEXE Method

The finite element method has been used to examine the joint factor in the modified MEXE method which is documented in the publications (BD21/93 and BA16/93) by the Department of Transport in the U.K. A series of numerical models was analyzed by using a tapered beam element computer program. From the results obtained, a larger range of factors for use in the modified MEXE method is suggested.