RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
ARCHITECTURE
&
HOUSING
GROUP
Evolving wooden architecture
for an amazing future
We develop methods for configuring wooden buildings.
We conduct extensive research and development
on medium to large scale wooden structures with the aim of
having the world’s best technology for enhancing the value of wood.
Big-Frame (BF) Construction Method for strong wooden houses
We developed the BF construction method, that enables a Rahmen structure in a wooden house for the first time in Japan, to realize a strong, flexible wooden building that allows a high degree of design freedom. We are continuing the evolution of wooden buildings.
Post-tensioning systems that support medium and large-scale architecture
Post-tensioning is a method in which a steel rod is put through a wall column, beam, etc. and tightened. The tension enhances the strength of a wood structure. Strength verification is repeated with structural test elements with the goal of practical use in medium-scale wooden buildings.
Taking on the fire resistance required by medium to large-scale buildings
We developed the Ki-Gurumi CT, a one-hour fire-resistance structural material, using wood as a fire-resistance covering material. In large-scale fire-resistant furnaces, we conduct fire resistance tests with full-size test elements and examine various material configurations including burning margin designs.
Confirming strength and seismic performance with full-scale tests
Testing is extensive, from single screw extraction experiments to experiments using full-sized structures.
Data that can not be obtained by simulation is acquired through static load tests and vibration tests to verify strength and earthquake resistance.