The stem-branch junction in trees demonstrates exceptional structural design. This study examined two key features of the branch junction in common ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.) wood: the interlocked area (ILA) formed above a knot and the spatial arrangement of fibers in the junction. Bio-inspired by the microstructural features revealed by micro-computed tomography imaging, we developed 3D-printed models and compared their mechanical performance to standard symmetrical T-joints. We evaluated the models using mechanical tests and finite element modeling (FEM). Asymmetrical 3D-printed joints mimicking vessel and fiber distribution in the stem-branch junction were 2% stiffer in the elastic region than symmetrical joints and showed, on average, 10% lower deflection at failure. While the ILA had minimal effect on elastic stiffness, measured surface strain analysis indicated that it positively influenced the redistribution of shear strain in the junctions. Thanks to the bio-inspired design, the joints were stiffer and can be utilized in multiple design configurations while maintaining the same underlying principle.

Department of Furniture and Interior Design Technical University in Zvolen 960 01 Zvolen Slovakia

Department of Furniture and Wood Products Technical University in Zvolen 960 01 Zvolen Slovakia

Department of Phytology Technical University in Zvolen 960 01 Zvolen Slovakia

Department of Wood Processing and Biomaterials Czech University of Life Sciences 165 00 Prague Czech Republic

Department of Wood Science Technical University in Zvolen 960 01 Zvolen Slovakia

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