Advancements in Force Transfer around Openings for Wood-Framed Shear Walls

by Robert Kuserk, P.E.

January 28, 2020; 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM Pacific Time

ICC Preferred Provider Course Number: 22679

Seminar Description

A joint research project of APA – The Engineered Wood Association, University of British Columbia (UBC), and USDA Forest Products Laboratory was initiated in 2009 to examine the variations of walls with code-allowable openings. Test results from the (8' x 12') full-scale wall configurations, in conjunction with the analytical results from a computer model developed by UBC, were used to develop and refine rational design methodologies in accordance with the International Building Code (IBC). This presentation provides an update of that research with a focus on asymmetric piers and multiple openings. Rational design methodologies in accordance with the IBC will be shared.

Learning Objectives:

1. Investigate past and current methods for determining force transfer around openings for wood shear walls.
2. Compare the effects of different sizes of openings and full-height piers, and their relationships to the three industry standards for calculation of force transfer around openings.
3. Assess new design methodologies for accurately estimating the forces around multiple openings with asymmetric piers.
4. Estimate the deflections for shear walls designed using the force transfer around openings design method.

Speaker Bio

Robert (Bob) Kuserk holds a Bachelor of Civil Engineering from Villanova University, a Master of Civil Engineering from the University of Delaware and is licensed as a professional engineer. An expert on residential and commercial design with engineered wood products, Bob joined APA in 2016 as an Engineered Wood Specialist covering the Northeast territory. Prior to joining APA Bob spent twenty years as an engineer providing technical support for a major manufacturer of engineered wood products. He is actively involved in consulting with builders, suppliers, designers and code officials to enhance their use and understanding of engineered wood products. His design and construction management experience includes residential and commercial structural design.

Registration Information

Please note a single registration allows you to have one connection. However, a number of people can view and listen to the seminar using one connection by using an LCD projector (or a large computer monitor) and good computer speakers or a speaker phone.

All attendees, irrespective of the number of registered connections, can earn 0.2 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or 2.0 professional development hours (PDHs). CEU/PDH certificates are provided free of charge.

FAQ

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