Understanding the behavior of cross-limited timber (CLT) diaphragms is critical to ensuring the structural integrity, durability, and resilience of mass timber structures. This presentation offers an overview of structural engineering modeling techniques for horizontal mass timber diaphragms under wind and seismic loading. The course will cover the physical in-plane mechanics of CLT and state-of-the-art models to calculate in-plane properties. Participants will learn about various modeling approaches, from basic to high-fidelity finite element models, and how these techniques are used to predict diaphragm performance in real-world conditions. The presentation will also explore the impact of connections on diaphragm system behavior, lateral load distribution, and key parameters influencing performance under lateral loads—providing practical insights into selecting appropriate models for wind and seismic analysis.
By the end of the course, you will be able to do the following:
- Review in-plane behavior of CLT panels and the physical mechanisms that influence in-plane shear and stiffness attributes.
- Learn how to apply available analytical models to predict in-plane panel stiffness and strength to ensure a safe and durable design.
- Explore the range of finite element modelling techniques applicable to real building project design with examples from practical experience.
- Understand the variety of connection details possible with mass timber diaphragms and their impact of system modelling and effect on internal load distribution, ensuring resilience and building health.