Probabilistic Analysis of Wood Trusses

A stochastic finite element analysis procedure for metal plate‐connected wood trusses has been developed. The probabilistic analysis uses a deterministic analysis with a metal plate‐connection model that was developed for this study. The structural anlaysis uses beam‐column elements to model the wood members. The metal plate connections are modeled using semi‐rigid connection elements. Results from the deterministic analysis compared well to full‐scale truss tests performed at the Small Homes Council. The stochastic analysis uses first‐order statistical methods to obtain the first four moments of nodal deflections and member end forces. This analysis was compared to Monte Carlo simulation results. The first three statistical moments exhibit a good match to the simulation results. The fourth moment results are inadequate.