Verification and Validation of finite element models for laminated timber structures using solid, solid-beam and solid-shell approaches

This paper presents a numerical approach to assess efficiently the vibration performance of adhesive-free engineered wood products assembled through compressed wood dowels. Predictive finite element models are obtained by applying the Verification and Validation methodology. The models are first developed using solid elements. Then, solid-beam and solid-shell approaches based on standard solid elements are developed with first-order or higher-order theories. Beam or shell kinematic assumptions are applied throughout the cross-section of the dowels and through the thickness of the layers. From a numerical point of view, a modification of the system of algebraic equations, based on the concept of independent and dependent nodes, is developed. Dependent nodes are eliminated, resulting in a significant reduction in the number of degrees of freedom and floating-point operations. The methodology is evaluated for the calculation of frequencies and mode shapes of adhesive-free laminated timber beams and timber panels with a mix of solid elements, solid-shell and solid-beam approaches. The study highlights the efficiency of the proposed modelling approach in terms of quality of results and model size reduction.