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