Timber Frame Connection Design

[msquared48]

Anyone have any good references/ computer analysis programs for the analysis and design of Timber Frame Connections. Specifically Mortise and Tenon, Oak Dowels with 1/2 sawn joints, and the like? Looking to create moment resisting timber frame jointery for residences. Thanks in advance for any input.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[SlideRuleEra]

thread726-193127

http://www.SlideRuleEra.net

http://www.VacuumTubeEra.net

 

[dik]

I've designed several timber frame buildings and have not found a simple method of analysis. A lot of 'blood, sweat, and tears'... the tears from the underestimated time for connection design and not including this in the fee. Many of the timberframe buildings have SIP type walls.

I've got a couple of books and the titles elude me... I'll chech when I get home.

Dik

 

[MiketheEngineer]

Its pretty hard to get a "real" moment connection in wood or timber. Even truss plates will allow some rotation.

I try to use a pin joint or three hinged arch - then check it like it was a rigid connection and design something that might work for both because you are in the "tweener" land.

I have talked to a number of timber frame mfg's and they don't seem to know how to do this.

 

[msquared48]

Thanks SlideRule. Yea, I remember the thread. Just wondering if any new light could be shed. I just hate to have to reinvent the wheel, but I may have to here.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[civilperson]

Since wood is not a constant dimension, (shrinks when drying), any moment connection made by tenon or dowel insertion will convert to partially restrained or simple hinge over time.

 

[civilperson]

Laminated and epoxy coated timbers are probably the exception to the above statement. W.E.S.T. system becomes unitized and the change of direction has moment capabilities.

 

[bigmig]

Mike,

I saw an entire article on timberframing connections from an carpenter's perspective in the Wood Design Focus journal. I have since misplaced or thrown the article away, but I'll bet it is in their library:

http://www.forestprod.org/agreement.htm).

The article was a very interesting as it focused on hand-me down joinery rules from a timberframer from days of old (pre 1930's). I realize you're looking for something a bit more upto date and code compliant, but I would start with the Wood Focus journal editors and work my way down to some timbeframers. These guys are out of Utah and might have some resources for you. They are not engineers, but are experienced timberframers.

http://www.euclidtf.com/.