Reinforcement Scheme and Simulation Analysis of the Timber Beam Frame in a Traditional Academy

To address the issues of deformation, sagging, and even cracking in the raised-beam timber frames of a certain academy after its restoration, a reinforcement scheme was proposed and validated. Drawing on the architectural style of academies in the Lingnan region and related studies, a reinforcement strategy suitable for timber frames was determined. A finite element model was established using GEN to analyze the bending moment and deformation of the timber frames before and after reinforcement. Finally, the simulation results were compared with the measured deformation of the frames after reinforcement. The results indicate that adding conversion components between timber trusses effectively eliminates potential safety hazards without the need to remove roof tiles. The addition of decorative wooden columns and beam-following plates significantly reduces the span of the beams under bending, thereby improving the stress and deformation characteristics of the raised-beam timber frames. Despite not accounting for material anisotropy, mortise-and-tenon joints, and foundation settlement, the finite element model accurately simulates the deformation behavior of timber structures. This study provides a technical reference for the restoration of historic buildings.