Strength Prediction for Rounded Dovetail Connections Considering Size Effects

The strength prediction of rounded dovetail connections (RDCs), a relatively new connection for structural timber members, is difficult due to the anisotropic and brittle nature of the material, the complex stress distribution as well as the uncertainties regarding the associated material resistance. Experimental investigations were carried out to provide input and benchmark data for developing a method to predict RDC strength. Numerical...