Investigation of the structural performance of mass timber form-fitting connections for gravity loading

The research program investigates the potential of form-fitting connections in terms of structural performance, manufacturing cost, ease of assembly, and embodied carbon to that of connectors currently employed in the industry. The joint topologies considered will be influenced by joinery techniques and geometry from various cultures and an understanding of the factors that led to their development while adapting them to modern mass timber products. More specifically, the study will focus on mortise and tenon (MT) and dovetail (DT) joinery for glulam purlin-to-beam and beam-to-column connections designed for gravity loading only.

Faculty Supervisor:

Daniel Lacroix

Student:

Partner:

Blackwell Structural Engineers

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: