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(11) | EP 4 202 138 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | A TIMBER FRAME PANEL |
| (57) The invention related to a timber frame panel (100) comprising a top rail (102) and
an opposing a base rail (104); and a first stud (106) and an opposing second stud
(108). The first stud is connected at a first end to the base rail and at a second,
opposite, end to the top rail. The second stud is connected at a first end to the
base rail and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail. The panel also has a first
mid rail (120), which first mid rail is connected at a first end to the first stud,
is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second stud and wherein the first mid
rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail. The panel further
includes a first diagonal brace (126) connected at a first end to the base rail and
connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail; and a second diagonal
brace (128) connected at a first end to the top rail and connected at a second, opposite,
end to the first mid rail. The first end of the first diagonal brace is connected
to the base rail by means of a first nail plate (138). The first end of the second
diagonal brace is connected to the top rail by means of a second nail plate (140).
The second ends of each of the first diagonal brace and the second diagonal brace
are connected to the first mid rail by means of a third nail plate (142). The panel
has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against
the first stud at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic directional
load resistance is at least 1.5 kN.
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[0001] This invention relates generally to a timber frame panel. This invention also relates to a racking resistant timber frame module comprising one or more timber frame panels. The invention further relates to a method of constructing such a timber frame panel and a racking resistant timber frame module.
[0002] Timber frame panels are used in the construction of walls, for example for structures such as buildings. Such panels include a timber frame, which may be covered with a facing of brickwork, tiles, rendering or other suitable materials. The majority of the loads imposed on the wall are carried by the timber frame, not the facing material.
[0003] "Racking" forces occur when timber frame structures are subjected to horizontal loads, for example wind loads. The application of such loads to the side of a timber frame panel of such a structure can result in the deformation of the timber framed panel from being rectangular, to being an oblique angled quadrilateral shape.
[0004] One approach to improving the racking resistance of a timber frame panel is to apply a sheathing lining to the outside of the frame. Lining boards such as oriented strand board (OSB) contribute to racking resistance. High racking resistance values have been achieved by the application of a double layer of OSB; however, there are a number of disadvantages associated with the use of a sheathing lining.
[0005] Firstly, the use of wood-based lining materials such as plywood or OSB increases both the weight and the material cost of the panel. The labour costs involved in manufacturing a panel with sheathing are also substantially higher than the cost of producing an unsheathed panel. A further disadvantage of using a sheathing board is that the sheathing board is fixed to the timber frame by nailing the sheathing board to the top and bottom rails and to the vertical studs within the timber frame. Failure can occur as the sheathing board is pulled through the nails at the leading corner of the timber framed panel during racking. If a second sheathing layer is required, it is not possible to see the fixing which connect the first sheathing layer to the panel. Hitting the nail heads of the first sheathing layer when attaching the second sheathing layer is a hazard. In some instances, the second sheathing layer is loosely fitted for transit, but there are issues if it is not fixed securely on site prior to construction of a structure.
[0006] It would therefore be advantageous to provide a timber panel which overcomes one or more of the disadvantages associated with known timber frame panels.
[0007] Accordingly, an aspect of the invention provides a timber frame panel including a frame, a mid rail positioned within and connected to the frame and at least one inclined or diagonal brace connected to and extending within the frame, the timber frame panel having a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the frame at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic racking load resistance is at least 1.5 kN.
[0008] Racking resistance is understood to be stopping the panel being pushed out of shape due to wind loads. The characteristic or predetermined racking load resistance of a timber frame panel is understood to be the force that the panel can withstand in a given direction without the panel being deformed permanently as a result of the force.
[0009] Advantageously, the invention enables the off-the-shelf provision of timber frame panels which have a predetermined directional load resistance, for example a racking resistance, that is suitable for structures having narrow frontages, large openings and for open plan living without the need for the application of a sheathing layer.
[0010] The frame may include a top rail and an opposing bottom or base rail. The frame may further comprise a first stud or end post and an opposing second stud or end post. A first end of the first stud may be connected to the base rail. A second, opposite, end of the first stud may be connected to the top rail. A first end of the second stud may be connected to the base rail. A second, opposite, end of the second stud may be connected to the top rail. The first stud and the second stud may be separated by a distance. The top rail and the opposing base rail may be substantially parallel. The first stud and the opposing second stud may be substantially parallel. In this way, the top rail, the base rail, the first stud and the second stud forma generally rectangular perimeter of the frame.
[0011] The mid rail may be a first mid rail. A first end of the first mid rail may be connected to the first stud. A second end of the first mid rail may be connected to the second stud. The first mid rail may be substantially parallel to the top rail and to the base rail.
[0012] The inclined or diagonal brace may extend between the base rail and the top rail. A first end of the inclined or diagonal brace may be connected to the base rail. A second end of the inclined or diagonal brace may be connected to the top rail. One or both ends of the diagonal brace member may be connected to the frame by means of a nail plate. For the avoidance of doubt, nail plates are substantially planar plates of metal out of which have been pressed a plurality of nail-like projections such that the projections extend substantially perpendicular to the plane of the plate itself. Commonly, the projections extend over substantially the entire area of the plate and are arranged in rows.
[0013] The inclined diagonal brace may include a first diagonal brace member and a second diagonal brace member. The first diagonal brace member may extend between the base rail and the mid rail. A first end of the first diagonal brace member may be connected to the frame, for example the base rail of the frame, by means of a nail plate. A second end of the first diagonal brace member may be connected to the mid rail, for example by means of a nail plate. The second diagonal brace member may extend between the top rail and the mid rail. A first end of the second diagonal brace member may be connected to the frame, for example the top rail of the frame, by means of a nail plate. A second end of the second diagonal brace member may be connected to the mid rail, for example by means of a nail plate.
[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a timber frame panel comprising: an upper or top rail and an opposing lower or bottom or base rail, a first stud or end post and an opposing second stud or end post, wherein the first stud is connected at a first end to the base rail and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail and the second stud is connected at a first end to the base rail and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail, the panel further comprising: a first mid rail, which first mid rail is connected at a first end to the first stud, is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second stud and wherein the first mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail, a first inclined or diagonal brace connected at a first end to the base rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail and/or the second stud, and a second inclined or diagonal brace connected at a first end to the top rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail and/or the second stud, wherein the first end of the first diagonal brace is connected to the base rail by means of a first nail plate, wherein the first end of the second diagonal brace is connected to the top rail by means of a second nail plate and wherein the second ends of each of the first diagonal brace and the second diagonal brace are connected to the first mid rail and/or the second stud by means of a third nail plate, and wherein the panel has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic directional load resistance is at least 1.5 kN.
[0015] Advantageously, the invention enables the off-the-shelf provision of timber frame panels which have a predetermined directional load resistance, for example a characteristic racking resistance, that are suitable for structures having narrow frontages, large openings and for open plan living without the need for the application of a sheathing layer.
[0016] The top rail, the base rail, the first stud and the second stud are arranged relative to one another so as to form a generally rectangular perimeter of the frame of the panel.
[0017] Preferably, the first stud and second stud are vertically oriented when the timber frame panel is in situ in a timber framed structure. In other words, the longitudinal axis of each of the first stud and the second stud may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail and the base rail.
[0018] The top rail, the base rail, the first stud and the second stud preferably provide a perimeter of a frame. More specifically, the first and second studs may be each attached at opposing ends of each of the top rail and the base rail with one stud at each end of the frame. Alternatively, the top rail and/or the base rail may provide one or more overhangs when attached to the pair of studs. In particular, the first stud and the second stud may each extend between the top rail and the base rail spaced apart from one or more ends of each of the top rail and/or the base rail.
[0019] In embodiments of the invention, the first stud may be spaced apart from the second stud at a distance of approximately 300 mm or less. One, some or all of the first nail plate, the second nail plate and the third nail plate may have a width of approximately 125 mm and a length of approximately 340mm.
[0020] In embodiments of the invention, the first stud may be spaced apart from the second stud at a distance of approximately 600 mm or less. One or both of the first nail plate and the second nail plate may have a width of approximately 200 mm and a length of approximately 340 mm. The third nail plate may have a width of approximately 125 mm and a length of approximately 340 mm. The characteristic directional load resistance of such arrangements may be at least 2.6 kN.
[0021] One, some or all of the top rail, the base rail, the first stud, the second stud, the first mid rail, and each of the diagonal bracing members may have a width, for example a fixed width. The width may be, for example, at least 35 mm. In examples, the width may be approximately 47 mm.
[0022] Additionally, or alternatively, one, some or all of the top rail, the base rail, the first stud, the second stud, the first mid rail, and each of the diagonal bracing members may have a depth, for example a fixed depth. The depth may be, for example, at least 72 mm.
[0023] The panel may further comprise a third stud. A first end of the third stud may be connected to the base rail. A second, opposite, end of the third stud may be connected to the top rail. The third stud may be substantially parallel to the first stud and the second stud.
[0024] Preferably, the third stud is vertically oriented when the timber frame panel is in situ in a timber framed structure. In other words, the longitudinal axis of the third stud may be parallel to the first stud and the second stud and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail and the base rail.
[0025] The third stud may be positioned outside of the frame formed by the top rail, the base rail, the first stud and the second stud. In some embodiments of the invention, for example in embodiments in which the top rail and/or the base rail provide one or more overhangs when attached to the pair of studs, the third stud may extend between the top rail and the base rail such that the second stud is positioned between the first stud and the third stud. In other words, a frame may be formed by the top rail, the base rail, the first stud and the third stud. In such an arrangement, the second stud may provide a vertical joist within the frame.
[0026] In some embodiments of the invention, the first stud, the second stud and the third stud may each extend between the top rail and the base rail spaced apart from one or more ends of each of the top rail and/or the base rail, thereby providing one or more overhangs. The panel may comprise a second mid rail. A first end of the second mid rail may be connected to the third stud. A second, opposite, end of the second mid rail may be connected to the second stud. The second, opposite, end of the second mid rail may be connected to the second stud and/or the first mid rail by means of a nail plate, for example the third nail plate. The second mid rail may be substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail.
[0027] The second mid rail may be aligned such that it is colinear with the first mid rail. A longitudinal axis of each of the first mid rail and the second mid rail may be parallel with the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail and the base rail. A longitudinal axis of each of the first mid rail and the second mid rail may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the first stud, the second stud and the third stud. In other words, the first mid rail and the second mid rail are horizontally oriented when the timber frame panel is in situ in a timber framed structure.
[0028] The panel may also comprise a third inclined or diagonal brace. A first end of the third diagonal brace may be connected to the base rail, for example by means of a fourth nail plate. A second, opposite, end of the third diagonal brace may be connected to the second mid rail, for example by means of a nail plate, e.g. the third nail plate.
[0029] The panel may additionally comprise a fourth inclined or diagonal brace. A first end of the fourth diagonal brace may be connected to the top rail, for example by means of a fifth nail plate. A second, opposite, end of the fourth diagonal brace may be connected to the second mid rail, for example by means of a nail plate, e.g. the third nail plate.
[0030] The first stud may be spaced apart from the second stud at a distance of approximately 600 mm or less. Additionally, or alternatively, the second stud may be spaced apart from the third stud at a distance of approximately 600 mm or less.
[0031] A timber frame panel having a third stud, a second mid rail, a third diagonal brace and a fourth diagonal brace may have a characteristic directional load resistance of approximately 5 kN.
[0032] One, some or all of the first nail plate, the second nail plate, the third nail plate, the fourth nail plate and the fifth nail plate may have a width of approximately 200 mm and a length of approximately 340mm.
[0033] One, some or all of the top rail, the base rail, the first stud, the second stud, the third stud, the first mid rail, the second mid rail and each of the diagonal bracing members may have a width, for example a width of at least 35 mm. In examples, the width may be approximately 47 mm.
[0034] One, some or all of the top rail, the base rail, the first stud, the second stud, the third stud, the first mid rail, the second mid rail and each of the diagonal bracing members may have a depth, for example a depth of at least 72 mm.
[0035] According to an alternative aspect of the invention, there is provided a timber frame panel comprising: a top rail and an opposing a base rail, a first stud, a second stud and a third stud, wherein a first end of each of the first stud, the second stud and the third stud is each connected to the base rail and a second, opposite, end of each of the first stud, the second stud and the third stud is connected to the top rail, wherein the third stud is substantially parallel to each of the first stud and the second stud, the panel further comprising: a first mid rail, which first mid rail is connected at a first end to the first stud, is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second stud and wherein the first mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail; a second mid rail, which second mid rail is connected at a first end to the third stud, is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second stud and wherein the second mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail; a first inclined or diagonal brace connected at a first end to the base rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud; a second inclined or diagonal brace connected at a first end to the top rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud; a third inclined or diagonal brace connected at a first end to the base rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud; and a fourth inclined or diagonal brace connected at a first end to the top rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud, wherein the first end of the first diagonal brace is connected to the base rail by means of a first nail plate, the first end of the second diagonal brace is connected to the top rail by means of a second nail plate, the first end of the third diagonal brace is connected to the bottom rail by means of a fourth nail plate, the first end of the fourth diagonal brace is connected to the top rail by means of a fifth nail plate and wherein the second ends of each of the first diagonal brace, the second diagonal brace, the third diagonal brace and the fourth diagonal plate are connected to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud by means of a third nail plate, and wherein the panel has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud or the third stud at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic directional load resistance is approximately 5 kN.
[0036] According to another aspect of the invention there is a timber frame system or module, for example a racking resistant timber frame system or module comprising a first timber frame panel according to any of the previous aspects of the invention and at least one additional timber frame panel according to any of the previous aspects of the invention, wherein the first timber frame panel and the at least one additional timber frame panel have a common top rail and a common base rail, and wherein the module has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against an outermost stud of the module at or adjacent the top rail of at least 5 kN. The characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against an outermost stud of the module at or adjacent the top rail, may be approximately 7.5 kN, 10 kN, 11 kN or 12 kN, for example up to 17 kN.
[0037] The racking resistant timber frame module may include two, or a pair, of additional timber frame panels. The characteristic directional load resistance of the module may be approximately 12 kN or 15 kN, for example up to 17 kN.
[0038] Without wishing to be bound by theory, the racking resistance of timber frame systems or modules may be greater than the sum of the racking resistance of the individual timber frame panels included within the module.
[0039] A further aspect of the invention provides a wall for a building. The wall may include at least one timber frame panel according to a preceding aspect of the invention. The wall may include at least one racking resistant timber frame module according to a preceding aspect of the invention.
[0040] Another aspect of the invention provides a building. The building may include at least one timber frame panel according to a preceding aspect of the invention. The building may include at least one racking resistant timber frame module according to a preceding aspect of the invention. The building may include at least one wall according to a preceding aspect of the invention.
[0041] A yet further aspect of the invention provides a method of constructing a racking resistant timber frame module. The method may include constructing a racking resistant timber frame module according to a preceding aspect of the invention.
[0042] An alternative aspect of the invention provides a method of constructing a timber frame panel, the method comprising: providing a top rail and an opposing base rail, connecting a first end of a first stud to the base rail and a second, opposite, end of the first stud to the top rail, connecting a first end of a second stud to the base rail and a second, opposite, end of the second stud to the top rail such that the first stud is substantially parallel to the second stud, connecting a first end of a first mid rail to the first stud and connecting a second, opposite, end of the first mid rail to the second stud such that the first mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail, connecting a first end of a first diagonal brace to the base rail by means of a first nail plate and connecting a second, opposite, end of the first diagonal brace to the first mid rail and/or the second stud, and connecting a first end of a second diagonal brace to the top rail by means of a second nail plate and connecting a second, opposite, end of the second diagonal brace to the first mid rail and/or the second stud, and connecting the second ends of each of the first diagonal brace and the second diagonal brace to the first mid rail and/or the second stud by means of a third nail plate, wherein the racking resistant timber frame panel has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic directional load resistance is at least 1.5 kN.
[0043] The method may further comprise: connecting a first end of a third stud to the top rail and a second, opposite, end of the third stud to the base rail such that the third stud is substantially parallel to the first stud and the second stud and the second stud is positioned between the first stud and the third stud; connecting a first end of a second mid rail to the third stud and a second, opposite, end of the second mid rail to the second stud such that the second mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail, connecting a first end of a third diagonal brace to the base rail by means of a fourth nail plate and connecting a second, opposite, end of the third diagonal brace to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud, and connecting a first end of a fourth diagonal brace to the top rail by means of a fifth nail plate and connecting a second, opposite end of the fourth diagonal brace to the first mid rail and/or the second mid rail and/or the second stud, wherein the second ends of each of the third diagonal brace, the fourth diagonal brace and the second mid rail are connected to the first mid rail and/or the second stud by means of the third nail plate and the characteristic directional load resistance is approximately 5 kN.
[0044] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of constructing a racking resistant timber frame module, the method comprising: providing a first timber frame panel according to a preceding aspect of the invention; providing at least one additional timber frame panel according to a preceding aspect of the invention; and connecting the first timber frame panel to the at least one additional timber frame panel, such that the first timber frame panel and the at least one additional timber frame panel have a common top rail and a common base rail and the module has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against an outermost stud of the module at or adjacent the top rail of at least 5 kN.
[0045] For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. For example, the racking resistant timber frame module may comprise any one or more features of the timber frame panel and/or the method may comprise any one or more features or steps relevant to one or more features of the timber frame panel or the racking resistant timber frame module.
[0046] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the word "comprise" and variations of the word, for example "comprising" and "comprises" mean "including, but not limited to" and is not intended (nor does it) exclude other components, integers or steps.
[0047] Throughout the description and claims of this specification the words "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "vertical", "horizontal" are not intended to limit the apparatus to a particular orientation, but are intended to show the orientation of the elements of the apparatus relative to one another only.
[0049] Within the scope of this application it is expressly intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. That is, all embodiments and/or features of any embodiment can be combined in any way and/or combination, unless such features are incompatible. For the avoidance of doubt, the terms "may", "and/or", "e.g.", "for example" and any similar term as used herein should be interpreted as non-limiting such that any feature so-described need not be present. Indeed, any combination of optional features is expressly envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention, whether or not these are expressly claimed. The applicant reserves the right to change any originally filed claim or file any new claim accordingly, including the right to amend any originally filed claim to depend from and/or incorporate any feature of any other claim although not originally claimed in that manner.
[0050] Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a front view of a timber frame panel according to an embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2 is a front view of a timber frame panel according to another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 3 is a front view of a racking resistant timber frame module according to a further embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a front view of a racking resistant timber frame module according to an alternative embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a front view of a racking resistant timber frame module according to a another embodiment of the invention;
Figure 6 is a front view of a racking resistant timber frame module according to a further embodiment of the invention; and
Figure 7 is a front view of a racking resistant timber frame module according to an alternative embodiment of the invention; and
Figure 8 is a front view of a wall including timber frame modules according to the invention.
[0052] Referring now to Figure 1, there is shown a timber frame panel 100. The timber frame 100 has a top or upper rail 102, a base or lower rail 104, a first stud or side member or end post 106 and a second stud or side member or end post 108. A first end 110 of the first stud 106 is connected to the base rail 104. A second, opposite, end 112 of the first stud 106 is connected to the top rail 102. A first end 114 of the second stud 108 is connected to the base rail 104. A second, opposite, end 116 of the second stud 108 is connected to the top rail 102.
[0053] The top rail 102 and the base rail 104 are in parallel orientation relative to each other. The top rail 102 and the base rail 104 are arranged to be horizontally oriented when the timber frame panel 100 is in situ in a timber framed structure. Similarly, the first stud 106 and the second stud 108 are in parallel orientation relative to each other. The first stud 106 and the second stud 108 are arranged to be vertically oriented when the timber frame panel 100 is in situ in a timber frame structure. In other words, the longitudinal axis of each of the first stud 106 and the second stud 108 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail 102 and the base rail 104.
[0054] The top rail 102, the base rail 104, the first stud 106 and the second stud 108 thus provide a perimeter of a frame 118. More specifically, the first and second studs 106, 108 are each attached at opposing ends of each of the top rail 102 and the base rail 104 with one stud 106, 108 at each end of the frame 118.
[0055] The panel 100 also includes a first mid rail or chord or transverse strengthening member 120. A first end 122 of the first mid rail 120 is connected to the first stud 106. A second, opposite, end 124 of the first mid rail 120 is connected to the second stud 108. As shown in Figure 1, the first mid rail 120 is substantially parallel to the top rail 102 and the base rail 104.
[0056] The panel 100 further includes a first diagonal brace 126 and a second diagonal brace 128. A first end 130 of the first diagonal brace 126 is connected to the base rail 104. A second, opposite, end 132 of the first diagonal brace 126 is connected to the mid rail 120. A first end 134 of the second diagonal brace 128 is connected to the top rail 102. A second, opposite, end 136 of the second diagonal brace 128 is connected to the mid rail 120.
[0057] The panel 100 also includes a plurality of nail plates 138, 140, 142. A first nail plate 138 is used to connect the first end 130 of the first diagonal brace 126 to the base rail 104. A second nail plate 140 is used to connect the first end 134 of the second diagonal brace 128 to the top rail 102. A third nail plate 142 is used to connect the second end 132 of the first diagonal brace 126, the second end 136 of the second diagonal brace 128 to the mid rail 120 and the second stud 108. In some embodiments, a nail plate 144 may be used to connect the first end 114 of the second stud 108 to the base rail 104, a nail plate 146 may be used to connect the second end 116 of the second stud 108 to the top rail 102 and/or a nail plate 148 may be used to connect the first end 122 of the mid rail 120 to the first stud 106. At each location where a nail plate is provided, a nail plate is provided on either face of the panel 100.
[0058] In one example of a panel 100, the first stud 106 is spaced apart from the second stud 108 at a distance D1 of approximately 300 mm or less. In such a panel 100, one, some or all of the first nail plate 138, the second nail plate 140 and the third nail plate 142 has a width of approximately 125 mm and a length of approximately 340mm.
[0059] The configuration of the panel 100 is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard "BS EN 594:2001: Timber structures. Test methods. Racking strength and stiffness of timber frame wall panels 31 July 2011." the panel 100 has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 106 at or adjacent the top rail 102 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 1) of at least 1.5 kN. The characteristic directional load resistance is sufficient to ensure that the panel will not rack unduly under normal in-plane loading without the need for sheathing.
[0060] In another example of a panel 100, the first stud 106 is spaced apart from the second stud 108 at a distance of approximately 600 mm or less. In such a panel 100, one or both of the first nail plate 138 and the second nail plate 140 has a width of approximately 200 mm and a length of approximately 340 mm and/or the third nail plate 142 has a width of approximately 125 mm and a length of approximately 340 mm. By varying the configuration of the components of the panel 100, e.g. the distance D1 between the first stud 106 and the second stud 108 and/or the number and size of the diagonal braces 126, 128 and/or the size of the nail plates 138, 140, 142, the characteristic directional load resistance of the panel 100 can be varied. In this example, increasing the distance D1 between the first stud 106 and the second stud 128 and increasing the size of one or more of the nail plates 138, 140, 142 resulted in increasing the characteristic directional load resistance of the panel 100 to approximately 2.6 kN (when tested in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001).
[0061] In each of the above examples, the top rail 102, the base rail 104, the first stud 106, the second stud 108, the first mid rail 120, and each of the diagonal bracing members 126, 128 of the panel 100 is manufactured from timber, for example TR26 timber. The timber used for the components of the panel 100 has a width of approximately 47 mm and a depth of approximately 72 mm. In this way, the depth (or thickness) of each panel 100 will be approximately 72 mm.
[0062] Another example of a timber frame panel 200 will now be described with reference to Figure 2. The timber panel 200 has a top rail 202, a base rail 204, a first stud 206 and a second stud 208. A first end 210 of the first stud 206 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 212 of the first stud 206 is connected to the top rail 202. A first end 214 of the second stud 208 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 216 of the second stud 208 is connected to the top rail 202. The second stud 208 is positioned such that it is spaced apart from each of the ends of the top rail 202 and each of the ends of the base rail 204. The timber frame panel 200 of this embodiment also includes a third stud 209. A first end 215 of the third stud 209 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 217 of the third stud 209 is connected to the top rail 202. The third stud 209 is substantially parallel to the first stud 206 and the second stud 208.
[0063] The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 are in parallel orientation relative to each other. The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 are arranged to be horizontally oriented when the timber frame panel 200 is in situ in a timber framed structure. Similarly, the first stud 206, the second stud 208 and the third stud 209 are in parallel orientation relative to each other. The first stud 206, the second stud 208 and the third stud 209 are arranged to be vertically oriented when the timber frame panel 200 is in situ in a timber frame structure. In other words, the longitudinal axis of each of the first stud 206, the second stud 208 and the third stud 209 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail 202 and the base rail 204.
[0064] In this arrangement, the top rail 202, the base rail 204, the first stud 206 and the third stud 209 provide a perimeter of a frame 218. More specifically, the first and third studs 206, 209 are each attached at opposing ends of each of the top rail 202 and the base rail 204 with one stud 206, 209 at each end of the frame 218. The second stud 208 provides a vertical joist, which extends between the top rail 202 and the base rail 204 and is intermediate the first stud 206 and the third stud 209.
[0065] The panel 200 also includes a first mid rail 220 and a second mid rail 221. A first end 222 of the first mid rail 220 is connected to the first stud 206. A second, opposite, end 224 of the first mid rail 220 is connected to the second stud 208. Similarly, a first end 223 of the second mid rail 221 is connected to the third stud 209. A second, opposite, end 225 of the second mid rail 221 is connected to the second stud 208. As shown in Figure 2, each of the first mid rail 220 and the second mid rail 221 are substantially parallel to the top rail 202 and the base rail 204. The first mid rail 220 and the second mid rail 221 in this example are aligned so as to be colinear.
[0066] The panel 200 further includes a first diagonal brace 226, a second diagonal brace 228, a third diagonal brace 227 and a fourth diagonal brace 229. A first end 230 of the first diagonal brace 226 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 232 of the first diagonal brace 226 is connected to the mid rail 220 and the second stud 208. A first end 234 of the second diagonal brace 228 is connected to the top rail 202. A second, opposite, end 236 of the second diagonal brace 228 is connected to the mid rail 220 and the second stud 208. Similarly, a first end 231 of the third diagonal brace 227 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 233 of the third diagonal brace 227 is connected to the second mid rail 221 and the second stud 208. A first end 235 of the fourth diagonal brace 229 is connected to the top rail 202. A second, opposite, end 237 of the fourth diagonal brace 229 is connected to the second mid rail 221 and the second stud 208.
[0067] The panel 200 also includes a plurality of nail plates 238, 240, 242, 239, 241. A first nail plate 238 is used to connect the first end 230 of the first diagonal brace 226 to the base rail 204. A second nail plate 240 is used to connect the first end 234 of the second diagonal brace 228 to the top rail 202. A third nail plate 242 is used to connect each of the second end 232 of the first diagonal brace 226, the second end 236 of the second diagonal brace 228, the second end 233 of the third diagonal brace 227 and the second end 237 of the fourth diagonal brace 229 to each of the mid rail 220 and the second stud 208. In some embodiments, an additional nail plate 244 may be used to connect the first end 214 of the second stud 208 to the base rail 204, an additional nail plate 246 may be used to connect the second end 216 of the second stud 208 to the top rail 202, an additional nail plate 248 may be used to connect the first end 222 of the mid rail 220 to the first stud 206 and an additional nail plate 249 may be used to connect the first end 223 of the mid rail 221 to the third stud 209.
[0068] In one example of a panel 200, the first stud 206 is spaced apart from the second stud 208 at a distance D2 of approximately 600 mm or less. Similarly, the second stud 208 is spaced apart from the third stud 209 at a distance D3 of approximately 600 mm or less. In such a panel 200, one, some or all of the first nail plate 238, the second nail plate 240, the third nail plate 242, the fourth nail plate 239 and the fifth nail plate 241 has a width of approximately 200 mm and a length of approximately 340 mm. By varying the arrangement of the components of the panel 200, for example the distances D2 and D3 between the first, second and third studs 206, 208, 209 and/or the size of the nail plates 238, 240, 242, 239, 241, and/or the number of the diagonal braces 226, 228, 227, 229 the characteristic directional load resistance, or racking resistance, of the panel 200 may be varied.
[0069] The configuration of the panel 200 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 206 at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 2) of approximately 5 kN.
[0070] As described in relation to the panel 100 of the first embodiment, the top rail 202, the base rail 204, the first stud 206, the second stud 208, the third stud 209, the first mid rail 220, the second mid rail 221 and each of the diagonal bracing members 226, 228, 227, 229 of the panel 200 are manufactured from timber, for example TR26 timber. The timber used for the components of the panel 200 has a width of approximately 47 mm and a depth of approximately 72 mm. In this way, the depth (or thickness) of each panel 200 will be approximately 72 mm.
[0071] Examples of the use of the timber frame panels 100, 200 in racking resistant timber frame modules for the construction of structures, such as the walls of buildings will now be described with reference to Figures 3 to 8. A number of timber frame panels can be joined together to form a racking resistant system or module having a predetermined or characteristic racking resistance. In some examples of racking resistant modules, an end post or stud of one timber frame panel may be attached or connected to an end post or stud of an adjacent timber frame panel. In other examples, two adjacent timber frame panels may share a common end post or stud.
[0072] Referring now to Figure 3, there is a timber frame system or module 300. The timber frame module 300 includes a timber frame panel 200 and an additional panel 301. The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 of the timber frame panel 200 each extend beyond the first stud 206 such that they form the top rail and base rail of the additional panel 301. In other words, the timber frame panel 200 and the additional panel 301 share a common top rail 202 and a common base rail 204.
[0073] The additional panel 301 includes a first stud 306 and a second stud 308. A first end 310 of the first stud 306 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 312 of the first stud 306 is connected to the top rail 202. A first end 314 of the second stud 308 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 316 of the second stud 308 is connected to the top rail 202.
[0074] The first stud 306 and the second stud 308 are in parallel orientation relative to each other and relative to the first stud 206 of the timber frame panel 200. The first stud 306 and the second stud 308 are arranged to be vertically oriented when the racking resistant timber frame module 300 is in situ in a structure. In other words, the longitudinal axis of each of the first stud 306 and the second stud 308 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail 202 and the base rail 204.
[0075] The additional panel 301 also includes a first mid rail 320 and a second mid rail 321. A first end 322 of the first mid rail 320 is connected to the first stud 306. A second, opposite, end 324 of the first mid rail 320 is connected to the second stud 308. A first end 323 of the second mid rail 321 is connected to the first stud 206 of the timber frame panel 200. A second, opposite, end 325 of the second mid rail 321 is connected to the second stud 308. As shown in Figure 3, each of the first mid rail 320 and the second mid rail 321 are substantially parallel to the top rail 202 and the base rail 204. In this example, the first mid rail 320 and the second mid rail 321 are colinear with respect to each other and with respect to the first mid rail 220 and the second mid rail 221 of the timber frame panel 200.
[0076] The configuration of the racking resistant timber frame module 300 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 306 at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 3) is approximately 5 kN.
[0077] As described in relation to the panels 100, 200 of the first embodiment, the first stud 306, the second stud 308, first mid rail 320 and the second mid rail 321 of the additional panel 301 are manufactured from timber, for example TR26 timber. The timber used for the components of the racking resistant timber frame module 300 has a width of approximately 47 mm and a depth of approximately 72 mm. In this way, the depth (or thickness) of the racking resistant timber frame module 300 will be approximately 72 mm.
[0078] Referring now to Figure 4, there is another racking resistant timber frame module 400. The module 400 includes a timber frame panel 200 and an additional panel in the form of a panel 100. The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 of the timber frame panel 200 each extend beyond the first stud 206 such that they form the top rail and base rail of the panel 100. In this example, the second stud of the panel 100 is provided by the first stud 206 of the panel 200.
[0079] The second end 124 of the first mid rail 120 of the panel 100 is connected to the first stud 206 of the panel 200 by means of the nail plate 142. In this example, the first mid rail 120 of the panel 100 is colinear with respect to each of the first mid rail 220 and the second mid rail 221 of the timber frame panel 200.
[0080] The configuration of the racking resistant timber frame module 400 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 106 at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 4) is approximately 11 kN.
[0081] Referring now to Figure 5, there is an alternative racking resistant timber frame module 500. The module 500 includes a first timber frame panel 200a and an additional panel in the form of a second timber frame panel 200b. The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 of the first timber frame panel 200a each extend beyond the first stud 206a such that they form the top rail and base rail of the second timber frame panel 200b.
[0082] In this example, the third stud 209b of the second timber frame panel 200b abuts and is connected to the first stud 206a of the first timber frame panel 200a. The first and second mid rails 220b, 221b of the second timber frame panel 200b are aligned such that they are colinear with respect to the first and second mid rails 220a, 221a of the first timber frame panel 200a.
[0083] The configuration of the racking resistant timber frame module 500 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 206b at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 5) is approximately 17 kN.
[0084] Without wishing to be bound by theory, it has been found that the racking resistance of timber frame systems or modules may be greater than the sum of the racking resistance of the individual timber frame panels included within the module.
[0085] Referring now to Figure 6, there is an alternative racking resistant timber frame module 600. The module 600 includes a first timber frame panel 200a, a first additional panel in the form of a second timber frame panel 200b and a second additional panel in the form of a third timber frame panel 200c. The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 of the first timber frame panel 200a each extend beyond the first stud 206a such that they form the top rail and base rail of each of the second timber frame panel 200b and the third timber frame panel 200c.
[0086] In this example, the third stud of the third timber frame panel 200c is provided by the first stud 206b of the second timber frame panel 200b. Similarly, the third stud of the second timber frame panel 200b is provided by the first stud 206a of the first timber frame panel 200a. Each of the first and second mid rails 220c, 221c of the third timber frame panel 200c, the first and second mid rails 220b, 221b of the second timber frame panel 200b and the first and second mid rails 220a, 221a of the first timber frame panel 200a are colinear.
[0087] The configuration of the racking resistant timber frame module 600 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 206c at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 6) is approximately 17 kN.
[0088] A yet further example of a racking resistant timber frame module 700 will now be described with reference to Figure 7. The module 700 includes a first timber frame panel 200, a first additional panel in the form of a timber frame panel 100 and a second additional panel 701. The top rail 202 and the base rail 204 of the first timber frame panel 200 each extend beyond the first stud 206 such that they form the top rail and base rail of each of the first additional timber frame panel 100 and the second additional timber frame panel 701.
[0089] The second additional timber frame panel 701 is positioned between the first timber frame panel 200 and the first additional timber frame panel 100. The second additional timber frame panel 701 includes a first stud 706, a second stud 708, and a laminate beam 703.
[0090] A first end 710 of the first stud 706 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 712 of the first stud 706 is connected to the top rail 202. A first end 714 of the second stud 708 is connected to the base rail 204. A second, opposite, end 716 of the second stud 708 is connected to the top rail 202.
[0091] The first stud 706 and the second stud 708 are in parallel orientation relative to each other and relative to the first and second studs 206, 208 of the timber frame panel 200 and the first and second studs 106, 108 of the first additional timber frame panel 100. The first stud 706 and the second stud 708 are arranged to be vertically oriented when the racking resistant timber frame module 700 is in situ in a structure. In other words, the longitudinal axis of each of the first stud 706 and the second stud 708 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of each of the top rail 202 and the base rail 204.
[0092] The second additional panel 701 also includes a laminate beam 703. A first end 723 of the laminate beam 703 is connected to the first stud 706. A second, opposite, end 725 of the laminate beam 703 is connected to the second stud 708. As shown in Figure 7, the laminate beam 703 includes a plurality of plates 705a, 705b, 705c, 705d, each of which abuts an adjacent plate. The uppermost plate of the plurality of plates 705a in the laminate beam 703 abuts the top rail 202. Each plate of the plurality of plates 705a, 705b, 705c, 705d is connected to the other plates, to the first stud 706 and to the second stud 708 by means of at least one nail plate.
[0093] An aperture 707, for example an opening suitable for receiving a door frame or a window frame, is defined between the laminate beam 703, the first stud 706, the second stud 708 and the base rail 204.
[0094] The configuration of the racking resistant timber frame module 700 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 106 at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F applied in the direction shown in Figure 7) is approximately 14 kN.
[0095] A panel 100, 200 or a module 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 as described above can be used in the following manner in the construction of a building. The panel or module is manufactured according to the desired specifications. In particular, the panel or module is designed and manufactured to have desired predetermined or characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against an outermost stud at or adjacent the top rail of the panel. The manufacture can take place at a location remote from the site of construction of the structure. In this way, 'off-the-shelf' units can be produced and purchased according to the design of the structure. The required panels or modules are then transported to the site of construction and positioned in place. Field spliced plates are used to secure the base rail(s) of the panels and modules to the foundations of the structure to hold the panels and modules in place. The panels and modules are located and fixed together as required. Outer layers of insulation an membranes and a facing or veneer of brick, tiles or other suitable material may then applied in a known manner.
[0096] An example of a wall 800 constructed from panels 200 and a module 400 (including a first panel 200 and a second panel 100) will now be described with reference to Figure 8. The wall 800 includes a racking resistant timber frame system or module 400, a first additional panel 801, a first panel 200a, a second additional panel 803 and a second panel 200b.
[0097] Each of the racking resistant timber frame system or module 400, the first additional panel 801, the first panel 200a, the second additional panel 803 and the second panel 200b share a common top rail 202 and a common base rail 204.
[0098] The module 400 is a racking resistant timber frame module as described with respect to Figure 4.
[0099] The additional panel 801 includes a plurality of vertical studs 806a, 806b, 806c, 806d, 806e, 806f, 806g. A first end of each of the vertical studs 806a, 806b, 806c, 806d, 806e, 806f, 806g is connected to the base rail 204 and a second, opposite, end of each of the vertical studs 806a, 806b, 806c, 806d, 806e, 806f, 806g is connected to the top rail 202. Each of the vertical studs 806a, 806b, 806c, 806d, 806e, 806f, 806g is substantially parallel to the studs 106, 206, 208 of the module 400. The first stud 806a is connected to and abuts the third stud 209 of the module 400. The seventh stud 806g is connected to and abuts the first stud 206a of the first panel 200a.
[0101] The second additional panel 803 includes a first stud 805, a second stud 809, a laminate beam 703, a mid rail 820 and an aperture 807.
[0102] The first stud 805 of the second additional panel 803 is connected at a first end to the base rail 204 and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail 202. The first stud 805 is connected to and abuts the third stud 209a of the first panel 200a and extends parallel to the studs 106, 206, 208 of the module 400 and each of the vertical studs 806a, 806b, 806c, 806d of the first additional panel 801.
[0103] The second stud 809 of the second additional panel 803 is connected at a first end to the base rail 204 and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail 202. The first stud 809 is connected to and abuts the first stud 206b of the second panel 200b and extends parallel to the studs 106, 206, 208 of the module 400 and each of the vertical studs 806a, 806b, 806c, 806d of the first additional panel 801.
[0105] The mid rail 820 extends between the first stud 805 and the second stud 809. In this example, the mid rail 820 is substantially parallel to the mid rails 120, 220, 221 of the module 400 and the mid rails 220a, 221a, 220b, 221b of the panels 200a, 200b.
[0106] The first stud 805, the second stud 809, the laminate beam 703 and the mid rail 820 define therebetween an aperture 807. The aperture 807 is an opening which is suitable for receiving a window frame.
[0107] The second panel 200b is a timber frame panel as described with respect to Figure 2, with the exception that the length of the panel 200b is less than the length of the first panel 200a. The first stud 206b is connected to and abuts the stud 809 of the second additional panel 803.
[0108] The wall 800 is assembled by connecting each of the module 400, the additional panel 801, the first panel 200a, the second additional panel 803 and the second panel 200b as described above. The configuration of the racking resistant timber frame module 800 as described above is such that when racking testing is carried out on in accordance with British Standard BS EN 594:2001, the characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud 106 at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F, applied in the direction shown in Figure 8) is approximately 11 kN. The characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the opposing stud 209b at the opposite end of the wall 800 at or adjacent the top rail 202 (such as a wind force F2 applied in the direction shown in Figure 8) is approximately 14 kN.
[0109] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the distance between adjacent studs, the number of inclining or diagonal braces, the position of the inclining or diagonal braces, the number of nail plates, the size of the nail plates, the location of the nail plates, the dimensions of the timber and the type of timber might all be varied in order to provide a panel or a module with the desired characteristic or predetermined directional load resistance to forces, such as racking forces.
1. A timber frame panel comprising:
the panel further comprising:
a top rail and an opposing a base rail,
a first stud and an opposing second stud,
wherein the first stud is connected at a first end to the base rail and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail and the second stud is connected at a first end to the base rail and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail,the panel further comprising:
a first mid rail, which first mid rail is connected at a first end to the first stud, is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second stud and wherein the first mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail,
a first diagonal brace connected at a first end to the base rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail, and
a second diagonal brace connected at a first end to the top rail and connected at a second, opposite, end to the first mid rail,
wherein the first end of the first diagonal brace is connected to the base rail by means of a first nail plate, wherein the first end of the second diagonal brace is connected to the top rail by means of a second nail plate and wherein the second ends of each of the first diagonal brace and the second diagonal brace are connected to the first mid rail by means of a third nail plate,
and wherein the panel has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic directional load resistance is at least 1.5 kN.
2. A timber frame panel according to claim 1, wherein the first stud is spaced apart
from the second stud at a distance of approximately 300 mm or less.
3. A timber frame panel according to claim 2, wherein one, some or all of the first nail
plate, the second nail plate and the third nail plate has a width of approximately
125 mm and a length of approximately 340mm.
4. A timber frame panel according to claim 1, wherein the first stud is spaced apart
from the second stud at a distance of approximately 600 mm or less.
5. A timber frame panel according to claim 4, wherein one or both of the first nail plate
and the second nail plate has a width of approximately 200 mm and a length of approximately
340 mm and/or the third nail plate has a width of approximately 125 mm and a length
of approximately 340 mm.
6. A timber frame panel according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein one, some or all of
the top rail, the base rail, the first stud, the second stud, the first mid rail,
and each of the diagonal bracing members has a width, for example wherein the width
is at least 35 mm, e.g. approximately 47 mm.
7. A timber frame panel according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein one, some or all of
the top rail, the base rail, the first stud, the second stud, the first mid rail,
and each of the diagonal bracing members has a depth, for example wherein the depth
is at least 72 mm.
8. A timber frame panel according to claim 1, the panel further comprising:
a third stud, which third stud is connected at a first end to the base rail and at a second, opposite, end to the top rail and wherein the third stud is substantially parallel to the first stud and the second stud;
a second mid rail, which second mid rail is connected at a first end to the third stud, is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second stud and wherein the second mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail,
a third diagonal brace, which third diagonal brace is connected at a first end to the base rail and is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second mid rail, and
a fourth diagonal brace, which fourth diagonal brace is connected at a first end to the top rail and is connected at a second, opposite, end to the second mid rail,
wherein the first end of the third diagonal brace is connected to the base rail by means of a fourth nail plate, wherein the first end of the fourth diagonal brace is connected to the top rail by means of a fifth nail plate and wherein the second ends of each of the third diagonal brace, the fourth diagonal brace and the second mid rail are connected to the first mid rail by means of the third nail plate.
9. A racking resistant timber frame module comprising a first timber frame panel according
to claim 8 and at least one additional timber frame panel according to any of claims
1 to 8, wherein the first timber frame panel and the at least one additional timber
frame panel have a common top rail and a common base rail, and wherein the module
has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against
an outermost stud of the module at or adjacent the top rail of at least 5 kN.
10. A racking resistant timber frame module according to claim 10, wherein the at least
one additional timber frame panel is a timber frame panel according to any of claims
2, 3, 6 or 7, and wherein the characteristic directional load resistance of the module
is approximately 7.5 kN.
11. A racking resistant timber frame module according to claim 10, wherein the at least
one additional timber frame panel is a timber frame panel according to any of claims
4 to 7, and wherein the characteristic directional load resistance of the module is
approximately 11 kN.
12. A wall for a building, the wall including at least one timber frame panel according
to any of claims 1 to 8 or at least one racking resistant timber frame module according
to any of claims 9 to 11.
13. A method of constructing a timber frame panel, the method comprising:
providing a top rail and an opposing base rail,
connecting a first end of a first stud to the base rail and a second, opposite, end of the first stud to the top rail,
connecting a first end of a second stud to the base rail and a second, opposite, end of the second stud to the top rail such that the first stud is substantially parallel to the second stud,
connecting a first end of a first mid rail to the first stud and connecting a second, opposite, end of the first mid rail to the second stud such that the first mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail,
connecting a first end of a first diagonal brace to the base rail by means of a first nail plate and connecting a second, opposite, end of the first diagonal brace to the first mid rail, and
connecting a first end of a second diagonal brace to the top rail by means of a second nail plate and connecting a second, opposite, end of the second diagonal brace to the first mid rail, and
connecting the second ends of each of the first diagonal brace and the second diagonal brace to the first mid rail by means of a third nail plate,
wherein the racking resistant timber frame panel has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against the first stud at or adjacent the top rail, wherein the characteristic directional load resistance is at least 1.5 kN.
14. A method of constructing a timber frame panel according to claim 13, the method further
comprising:
connecting a first end of a third stud to the top rail and a second, opposite, end of the third stud to the base rail such that the third stud is substantially parallel to the first stud and the second stud;
connecting a first end of a second mid rail to the third stud and a second, opposite, end of the second mid rail to the second stud such that the second mid rail is substantially parallel to the top rail and the base rail,
connecting a first end of a third diagonal brace to the base rail by means of a fourth nail plate and connecting a second, opposite, end of the third diagonal brace to the second mid rail, and
connecting a first end of a fourth diagonal brace to the top rail by means of a fifth nail plate and connecting a second, opposite end of the fourth diagonal brace to the second mid rail,
wherein the second ends of each of the third diagonal brace, the fourth diagonal brace and the second mid rail are connected to the first mid rail by means of the third nail plate and the characteristic directional load resistance is approximately 5 kN.
15. A method of constructing a racking resistant timber frame module, the method comprising:
providing a first timber frame panel according to claim 8;
providing at least one additional timber frame panel according to any of claims 1 to 8, and
connecting the first timber frame panel to the at least one additional timber frame panel, such that the first timber frame panel and the at least one additional timber frame panel have a common top rail and a common base rail and the module has a characteristic directional load resistance to forces applied directly against an outermost stud of the module at or adjacent the top rail of at least 5 kN.