Numerical simulation of contact problems - traditional timber joints under monotonous loading

A numerical simulation on rafter–tie beam–connections in traditional roofs under monotonous loading is presented. A comparison was made to tests performed at Dresden University of Technology (DE). A step-by-step procedure was adopted to simulate the semi–rigid behaviour of the connection with point–to–surface contact elements. The results show good correspondence with typical material characteristics. To increase the load carrying capacity further studies with fibreglass fabrics reinforced joints were considered.