A collaboration between Timber Unlimited and CLT Toolbox commenced late last year in response to the NZS AS 1720.1:2022 Timber Structures Standard, which introduced complex new design methodologies and requirements for structural elements/connections — including brittle failure modes. Timber Unlimited says the software offers clear inputs and outputs, the ability to select New Zealand timber grades, dynamic images and PDF design report generation.

“Timber Unlimited is very happy to partner with CLT Toolbox to offer parts of this advanced software for free to New Zealand industry,” says Bjørn Stankowitz, Technical Manager at Timber Unlimited. “With the release of the new Timber Structures Standard (NZS AS 1720.1:2022), it’s essential that we provide the industry with the resources to implement these new standards effectively.” 

The free version of the advanced design software involves the integration of 17 advanced dowel and bolt calculators, Timber Structures Standard education features, and four further design modules. The programme was reviewed and validated by the NZ Timber Design Society and the Structural Engineering Society NZ (SESOC). 

President of Timber Design Society, Lisa Oliver, says the organisation is excited about the potential of the validated software package to empower smaller engineering firms in New Zealand. “New design methods can be a barrier to adopting a new material or construction typology, and this software will help engineers become confident timber designers,” she says. “We look forward to seeing an increasing number of timber buildings in New Zealand and an increase in the quality of those designs.”

Engineers and designers are encouraged to take advantage of this free resource by visiting the Timber Unlimited website here.

This project was funded by MPI through Timber Unlimited as part of an initiative to enable more wood in mid-and high-rise construction.