This research investigated an all-timber structural joint for non-vertical structural skeletons. A sinusoidal waveform geometry locks elements in place and resists bending, twisting, shear and compression forces, reducing the need for steel fasteners at the joint. A spectrum of wood materials is proposed for elements that experience greater or lesser stress concentrations, including Glue-Laminated Timber (GLT), Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). Despite the geometric complexity of the joint, it can be easily manufactured with a proposed wirecutting tool. A demonstration joint at 1:2 scale was fabricated using a robotic milling process, demonstrating the function of the joint under the constraints of fabrication tolerances.

Waveform Joint

ITECH Studio Work

Universität Stuttgart, Germany

Tutors: Luis Orozco | Gregor Neubauer

Idealized wirecutting process

Implemented milling process

Demonstration joint

Interior perspective (Mengxi He)

Interior perspective (Mengxi He)