Optimization of derrick structure is carried out by modeling different bracing systems with different parameters of design, for example, vertical panel height, bracing type, buckling restraint, and member orientation to come to optimum result in terms of structural weight, lateral stiffness, and number of joints. Eccentric bracing system, 2X-bracing system, X-bracing system, and K-bracing system are studied and comparisons are made among structures with similar vertical panel height to come to efficient geometry of that category. A Double Channel and Single Channel Endplate connection are developed and modeled to see the stress distribution, moments, and rotation capacities. Finally, behavioral plots (moment-rotation) are modeled to rate the performance of connections.

Structures with relatively shorter force path, uniform internal force distribution, and small internal forces are found to respond well and they are stiff, economical, and elegant as well. For 2X-bracing system, efficiency of offset derrick structure to resist the load is found to decrease for both small and large vertical panel height and optimum height was found in between. For this study, the optimum height was 20 ft. for 2X-bracing system. Thickness, and overlapping length of channel plate is found important for in-plane capacity of connection while stiffeners are more important for out-of-plane capacity. Connection is found to have higher in-plane bending stiffness than for out-of-plane.