Reinterpretation of traditional carpentry joints in contemporary wooden architecture

The article is devoted to the problem of design and fabrication of joints in contemporary wooden architecture. The CAD/ CAM design methodology results in new production and assembly methods used in the creation of novel structural systems. Connections used in structures are often derived from traditional carpentry connections used in a new way. They are reinterpreted and adapted to their new role in new structural systems. The article presents the results of an analysis of three experimental pavilions conducted in the context of the types of element connections used in their construction. Carpentry joints in traditional architecture were used and fabricated with technologies available at the time and were developed and used in post-beam constructions that utilize large, widely-spaced wood to provide structural support to the building. Timber frame technologies were dependent on mechanical connectors (nails, screws, shear plates, nailed plates). Digital era technologies provide new ways of joining elements according to new structural systems.