Mass Timber AI
AI for designing mass timber structures and connections.
Definition
Mass Timber AI assists architects and engineers in designing with cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam, and other mass timber products. These systems understand mass timber structural behavior, connection design, fire performance, and code requirements. AI can optimize timber layouts, design connections, and ensure mass timber designs meet building codes.
In Depth
Mass timber construction — CLT (cross-laminated timber), glulam, and NLT (nail-laminated timber) — is an emerging structural system with specific code provisions, fire protection requirements, and connection details that differ from both light-frame wood and traditional steel/concrete construction. AI assists with the code compliance, structural analysis, and connection design unique to mass timber.
The IBC provisions for tall mass timber (Types IV-A, IV-B, and IV-C construction) introduced in the 2021 IBC are complex and relatively new, with specific requirements for fire-resistance ratings, noncombustible protection layers, and sprinkler system requirements that go beyond those for other construction types. AI checks mass timber designs against these specific provisions, which many designers are encountering for the first time.
Examples
Designing mass timber floor layouts
Optimizing timber-to-timber connections
Checking mass timber fire ratings
Nomic Use Cases
See how Nomic applies this in production AEC workflows:
Frequently Asked Questions
Mass Timber AI assists architects and engineers in designing with cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam, and other mass timber products. These systems understand mass timber structural behavior, connection design, fire performance, and code requirements. AI can optimize timber layouts, design connections, and ensure mass timber designs meet building codes.
Designing mass timber floor layouts. Optimizing timber-to-timber connections. Checking mass timber fire ratings.
Automated Code Compliance: Check drawings against 380+ building codes and standards with cited answers. Firm-Wide Detail Search: Give designers instant access to every detail your firm has ever drawn.