Status of vibration serviceability design methods for lightweight timber floors

Abstract

Since the 1970s occupant complaints about vibration serviceability performances of lightweight timber floors have risen in many countries. Initially concerns commonly centered on behaviours of joisted floors in non-commercial buildings. Empirical design methods were developed, but those methods sidestepped generalize understanding of the issues. Subsequent evolution of building construction techniques and material options often exacerbated inadequacies of empirical design methods. Consequently, interest in understanding why vibration serviceability problems occur and how to avoid them has reemerged as a priority research topic. This paper discusses technical issues associated with predicting vibration serviceability performances of lightweight timber floors, and identifies best current analysis and design practices. Emphasis is on ability to handle the full range of variables associated with 21st century lightweight construction methods. This includes capability to address effects of architectural and construction design choices, and effects types of building occupancies have on dynamic loads and motion responses of floor systems. Need to utilize capabilities of modern numerical engineering analysis tools is also emphasized. Ongoing R&D activities are mentioned, including need to address Human-Structure Interaction effects commonly important to proper design of lightweight building superstructures.