Finite-Element Model for Wood-Based Floors with Lateral Reinforcements

Abstract

Lateral reinforcements can enhance serviceability of wood-based floor systems. However, because of a lack of proper analysis models, the benefit from installing these components has not been fully recognized in floor design. In this paper, a finite-element model for predicting static and dynamic characteristics of wood-based floor structures with various types of lateral reinforcements is presented. In this model, shell elements were employed to represent floor decking and ceiling, and beam elements were utilized to model joists and structural members in the lateral reinforcements. Special connector elements were developed to model the fasteners connecting various structural components. Other structural features, such as gaps perpendicular to joists in the subfloor, additional objects on floor and flexible supports, were also considered. A computer model incorporating these new features has been developed. For verification and validation purposes, the predicted deflections and natural frequencies for a number of full-size floors were compared with experimental values. Good agreement has been observed. These numerical test results indicated that the present finite-element model is reliable and unique, particularly in modeling floors with lateral reinforcements.