A material efficient prefabricated floor system for affordable mass timber construction
ongoing
I am currently designing and prototyping a material-efficient mass timber structural system. The system has the ability to achieve large column-free spaces, without apparent beams, entirely fabricated on standard 3-axis CNC machines. The hollow core design offers large material savings compared to a standard beam + CLT solution. The system is designed for the use of Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL) from small-diameter trees.
The first prototype was built by 57st. design (see below).
Current design and prototyping are happening at the Autodesk Pier 9 Technology Center.
Structural elements of the hollow core system
Structural analysis of cross beams
Prototype made by 57st. design
Prototype made by 57st. design
Prototype made by 57st. design
Prototype made by 57st. design