Coefficient of Acceptability for Joints on Furniture Frame Analysis under Cyclic Loads

Abstract

In this study, it was aimed to determine the coefficient of acceptability for furniture joints on chair frames. In doing so, three chair configurations made of soft maple and yellow poplar were defined. Chairs were subjected to a front-to-back cyclic load test until non-recoverable failure occurred. Ultimate failure loads for each chair frame were used to determine the moment capacity of critical joints. Likewise, according to American Library Association, acceptable light, medium and heavy-duty service loads were subjected to chairs in the structural analysis to obtain acceptable moment capacities of critical joints using the stiffness method. Then, lines were drawn from an initial strength of the joint to the moment capacities of the joint at the load level imposed on the chair. Differentiating the slopes between lifeline and acceptable levels gives a coefficient of acceptability. This coefficient would provide insight into the serviceability and durability of joints and chair frames.