Timber Shear Wall Analysis : Parameterized Finite Element Modelling

This paper investigates the linear elastic behavior of timber shear walls under monotonic prescribed displacement. ABAQUS© 16.4-5, is a numerical finite element software used as the primary analysis methodology. Parameterized models are created for two shear wall specimens of different geometry concerning door and window configurations. The shear walls are simulated as solid timber framing which is mechanically connected to gypsum sheathing board through fasteners. The primary findings are the linear elastic shear force distribution of the mechanical joints. Additionally, deformations and reaction forces of the shear walls are determined. The overall horizontal shear wall behavior of each specific wall was also studied in the presence of door and window openings. The simulations indicate there is a clear deformation difference in the behaviors of the two shear walls. Furthermore, the highest shear force values of the fasteners are located around the corners of the openings. The findings are supported by other researcher’s experiments and analytical tests, timber shear wall theory and Eurocode design requirements.