Lateral stiffening systems for tall timber buildings

Abstract

Load Bearing structures for high-rise buildings, such as those developed in steel and reinforced concrete in the 20th century, are still missing in timber construction. Even when first pilot projects are opening up the timber-concrete-composite construction, the development and relevant lateral stiffening is still predominantly carried out using reinforced concrete. An adaptive bracing system made of timber is being developed for such mega-structures, as required by the lateral stiffening of high-rise buildings. In addition to the structural analysis based on the requirements, the aim of the research project is the connections’ development by implementing concentrated yield zones for calculable plastic capacity reserves of robust structural solutions.
The knowledge gained in the research project should form the basis for the dimensioning of innovative and sustainable high-rise timber structures. The main result of the work will be a practical and economical solution for an adaptable type of supporting structure for tall timber buildings between 70 and 130 m.

Support

The project is kindly supported by the Swiss Innovation Agency (Innosuisse) and the industrial partner Schnetzer Puskas Ingenieure AG.