A rational analysis and design procedure for wood joist floor systems

Abstract

Wood joist structural systems in housing and other construction account for a large percentage of the total use of wood, one of man's most important renewable resources. The current method of design of wood systems is based on grossly simplifying assumptions, which can lead to inefficient use and unpredictable performance. In the fall of 1971, an interdisciplinary team of researchers was organized at Colorado State University under the sponsorship of the National Science Foundation to develop a rational analysis procedure for wood joist structural systems. The goal of this research was to develop a mathematical model describing the behavior of joist systems and to verify its validity by a series of carefully controlled tests on full-scale structures. This model, now developed and verified, provides the correct engineering basis for developing new, radically improved design procedures for wood joist structural systems. Design methods leading to more efficient use of materials, cost-benefit relationships, and the benefits of upgrading material property assessments can now be studied and quantified. Thus, this investigation has made considerable progress toward the goal of better utilization of a critical natural resource and at the same time, the quantification of a rational analysis method which will lead to design methods which will assure the nation's consumers of reliable, safe, and economical wood joist structural systems.