Geometrical analysis of naturally grown timber for the design of load-bearing structures

Abstract

Combining tradition and innovation, timber plays essential roles in building structures for architecture and engineering. Tree branching geometries and timber in natural state often serve as sources of inspiration. However, the mechanical properties of naturally grown timber, inherently inconsistent and geometrically varied, remain insufficiently studied, particularly for construction and simulations. This knowledge gap perpetuates the prevalent use of straight, uniformly harvested timber, while neglecting curved and bifurcated elements with smaller cross-sections.

This research investigates the potential of naturally grown timber in structural design, emphasizing the importance of understanding natural characteristics and growth patterns of trees to optimize timber use. The developed methodology leverages non-invasive technologies, such as Computerized Tomography (CT), to precisely capture geometrical and material properties of wood. These data sources are then integrated to visualize cross-sectional geometries and material properties, forming the basis for our analytical approach. Utilizing Generalized Scaled Boundary Isogeometric Analysis, the methodology enhances the accuracy and efficiency of simulations, aligning structural design with natural growth principles. This approach not only fosters sustainable resource practices by promoting the use of major tree parts but also transforms discarded materials into valuable resources. The paper concludes with a demonstration of this methodology applied in a practical construction scenario.