Structurally efficient timber grid shell nodes: A Case Study of the Scunthorpe Sports Academy

In the field of structural surfaces, single layer straight member grid shell designs are a ubiquitous emerging phenomena. This trend is driven by sustainability, economy and efficiency in design. When timber is used for these structures, their success depends largely on the structural performance and economy of the steel connecting nodes. This paper presents a multi-parameter comparative study of two typical nodes for use in the Scunthorpe Sports Academy (Buro Happold 2011). The study involves a detailed FE node modelling, physical node testing, and a cost and construction analysis. The paper concludes with a discussion of the current trends and recommendations for connection design for single layer timber grid shells.