Development of the multiple tenon timber connection based on experimental studies and FE simulation

This paper describes the development of the multiple tenon connection from the basic idea to an optimised timber connection. Based on the promising results of a first series of experimental testing, a finite element model considering different failure modes was developed to simulate the load-bearing behaviour of a four-tenon connection. The shape of the multiple tenons and the geometrical position was studied to compare the varying ultimate loads depending on different geometrical parameters. Based on these relations, a second experimental series was developed with an improved design. The results show significantly higher load capacities compared to the results of the first test series. Different possibilities of additional reinforcement have been studied. In comparison to existing form-fitting connections, multiple tenons exhibit a remarkable increase of load-bearing capacity together with reduced scattering of test results. Two-dimensional finite element simulations supported the design optimisation of wood-to-wood connections in a very efficient way.