About the author ⁄ John W. Lawson P.E., S.E.

John Lawson is a Professor in Architectural Engineering at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo (jwlawson@calpoly.edu).

Designing with Force-Transfer Shear Walls

A Stiff Task to Achieve Better Performance and Cost Savings

Wood-framed structural panel shear walls designed using the Force Transfer Around Openings (FTAO) method have become a very popular option for engineers, especially in areas with high lateral force requirements. The need for more affordable housing in metropolitan areas is leading to larger and taller multi-family residential buildings, and these typically wood-framed structures can benefit from the innovative approach behind FTAO design methodology. But do engineers have all the tools they need to accurately determine the stiffness of these walls and the associated lateral force required for their design.

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Jun, 2022 By Michael Deigert, P.E., S.E. and John W. Lawson P.E., S.E. In Structural Design Comments 0

Used the Most, Taught the Least

An Analysis of Current Wood Engineering Education in U.S. Universities

Structural engineers are becoming aware of the impact the selection of structural materials can have on the environment. The building industry is acknowledging and embracing the contribution of the sustainable potential of wood to reduce the environmental footprint of a project through its carbon-storing capabilities and renewable qualities. …

Aug, 2020 By John W. Lawson P.E., S.E., Michelle Kam-Biron, P.E., S.E. and Brent Perkins, P.E., S.E. In Education Issues Comments 0

Tilt-Up Concrete Wall Anchorage Design

A Trial and Error Process

Concrete tilt-up buildings are a common subset of a class of building referred to as rigid-wall-flexible-diaphragm (RWFD) structures. Common diaphragm types are plywood, oriented strand board, or metal deck. Masonry wall buildings with flexible diaphragms are also examples of RWFD buildings. Tilt-ups have performed poorly in past earthquakes, with the primary weakness being the anchorage between walls and roof. …

Apr, 2019 By John W. Lawson P.E., S.E. and David L. McCormick S.E., P.E., SECB In Northridge – 25 Years Later Comments 0

Crack Control Measures for Tilt-Up Concrete Panels

When it comes to enclosing large building volumes, it is hard to beat tilt-up concrete construction for economy and durability. Long considered the mainstay for warehouses and big-box retail, the tilt-up method is now frequently employed for commercial projects, churches, schools and Class A office buildings nationwide. With newer types of occupancies driving attention to aesthetics higher and higher, the importance of minimizing concrete cracking in the site-cast precast wall panels is greater than ever. …

Jan, 2015 By John W. Lawson P.E., S.E. and Joseph J. Steinbicker, P.E., S.E. In Articles, Construction Issues

A Solution to Seismic Bracing Restrictions

Expanding the Acceptance of New Large HSS Sections

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Feb, 2010 By John W. Lawson P.E., S.E. In Articles, Structural Performance

Tilt-Up Building Seismic Design

Precast or Cast-in Place?

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Jan, 2008 By Joseph J. Steinbicker, P.E., S.E. and John W. Lawson P.E., S.E. In Articles, Structural Practices

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