Towards Sustainable Timber Construction Through the Application of Wood-Wood Connections

This paper introduces a series of sustainable timber construction using wood-wood connections, which are driven from environmental requirements. These constructions are based on geometries like origami and free-form instead of standard structural elements. In addition, to predict the structural behaviour, the simplified numerical methods for accurately modelling are used. The aim of these case studies is to better explore the value of wood-wood connections as inheritance of ancient culture and extend research on their integration into design processes. Through the design, manufacturing and assembly stage, the connections are investigated as a driver for architectural forms. The utilisation of these innovative connections with minimised metal connectors ensures the rapid, precise and simple assembly process. With in-depth study and innovation of the ancient wood-wood connections, experience in prefabricated timber structure not only offers new geometrical opportunities, but also expands the understanding of integration of ancient and modern cultures.