Abstract
This work presents an innovative concept for the design and construction of timber grid shells, combining the advantages of active bending, carpentry joints, and digital fabrication, using a new laminated veneer lumber (LVL) made from Eucalyptus globulus L., which allows a fast and dry bending process. The research focuses on the mechanical properties of the material, the connection system, and meshing strategies, exploring and discussing each of these aspects in relation to existing timber grid shell structures. The bending capacity of the new LVL is evaluated through plank bending tests. Next, an innovative connection concept is presented, integrating the nodal joint and the multilayer system through a CNC-fabricated carpentry joint design that unifies structural performance, aesthetic appearance, and the possibility of assembly and disassembly. Finally, several methods for generating orthogonal patterns compatible with the proposed connection solution are presented, along with various prototypes developed using the proposed concept. The results show that Eucalyptus globulus LVL has mechanical properties significantly superior to those of other structural products available on the European market, allowing smaller bending radii with a notably higher modulus of elasticity. The successful realization of prototypes at different scales demonstrates the feasibility of the concept and highlights the great potential of this novel approach for the construction of timber grid shell structures.
Lara-Bocanegra AJ, Martínez-Criado Carlos, Roig A, Majano-Majano A (2025). Towards a new concept of laminar reticular timber structures. Lignomad 25. 24–26 Sep 2025. Granada, Spain. ISBN: 978-84-09-78213-0.