Timber engineering is currently in the midst of a significant evolution due to the rise of mass timber products, like cross-laminated timber (CLT). In the United States structural engineers are being challenged to design lateral-force-resisting systems (LFRS) for multi-story CLT structures. Researching and developing methods to incorporate CLT as an LFRS is attractive because of its structural, environmental, and societal benefits. The high in-plane strength and stiffness of CLT makes it well suited for tall-wood buildings when connections are robustly designed. Toe-screwed and slip-friction connections are two connection options with significant research gaps. Toe-screwing has been overlooked as a viable connection because of seismic performance concerns. The results of this project show significant promise for toe-screwed connections by demonstrating comparable seismic performance to similar connection alternatives.

Slip-friction connections are another option for CLT buildings that provide increased damping and structural protection. One of the barriers to implementing slip-friction connections has been the lack of experimental support for key modeling assumptions and performance. By testing connection and wall assemblies data were gathered to improve our understanding of these connections when coupled with CLT rocking walls in multi-story structures.

Come participate in Dillon’s defense as he discusses testing, design, and modeling of toe-screwed and slip-friction connections.

Dillon Fitzgerald grew up in Maryland learning how to restore timber frame barns, outbuildings, churches, and covered bridges from his father until graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY. After graduating with a master’s degree in civil engineering, Dillon worked at Tetra Tech designing a variety of steel and concrete structures. Desiring to pursue timber engineering as a career, and intrigued by recent industry advances, Dillon entered Oregon State University to earn a PhD in Wood Science and Civil Engineering. Recently having passed the principles of engineering (PE) exam he is weighing different career opportunities for after OSU.