Connections Design and Analysis: Numerical, Analytical and Code-Based Methods

The design and performance of structural connections in timber engineering plays a critical role in the safety and functionality of timber structures, especially in applications involving tall buildings. In this chapter, the design and modelling strategies of structural connections in timber engineering are examined. The study highlights the significance of key parameters, including stiffness, strength, and ductility, and explores how these factors influence the behaviour and performance of various connection types under different loading conditions. Analytical and numerical methods for assessing the mechanical properties of connections are presented, including those outlined in widely used standards like Eurocode 5. The discussion highlights the limitations of these guidelines, particularly their inability to fully address complex behaviours such as non-linear deformation and long-term effects. The importance of experimental validation is also emphasized, as a critical step in refining models and improving design practices.