Lateral stabilisation in multi-storey timber volume element buildings

Abstract: The use of timber volume elements (TVEs) in residential multi-storey buildings is increasing in popularity. Manufacturing methods and building processes have been streamlined to improve product quality. However, further streamlining still remains concerning the efficiency of current calculation methods, as many developers still use simple hand calculations. The objective with this dissertation was to create a three-dimensional numerical calculation model of a TVE building system from a well-known TVE developer. The dissertation aimed mainly at providing further knowledge about lateral stabilisation for TVE systems, since this is one of the current challenges for the developer. The focus was on how connections within and between TVEs affect the overall stability of the structural system, and what advantages could be gained from using a three-dimensional numerical model compared to analytical methods. Numerical models of TVEs were developed using the finite element method. Firstly, individual TVE models were assembled and stiffnesses gained from regarding three-dimensional effects were compared to those obtained from analytical methods. Secondly, the TVE models were assembled into the tallest and most slender configuration possible in regards to lateral stability. Assumptions made in previously performed analytical calculations were tested, as well as further three-dimensional effects from regarding the complete structural system. The analysis of the individual TVEs resulted in a 30~\% stiffness increase compared to analytical methods, mainly from load-sharing between parallel shear walls through the roof. The assembled model of the building system resulted in transverse walls having a significant impact on load-sharing, as rotations and out-of-plane displacements in shear walls increased with increasing building height. Depending on wind load direction and model configuration, 17-40~\% of lateral loads were shared with the transverse walls. Overall, the numerical model provided sufficiently accurate depictions of connection force distributions. Thus, further experimental calibrations are required to take full advantage of the three-dimensional structural behaviour.