Structural Assessment and Scantlings of Traditional Small Crafts

Abstract

The scantlings of traditional wooden crafts often originate from the extensive experience of designers and boatbuilders. With the contemporary regain of interest for historical replicas and timber construction, and the ever-critical necessity to minimise displacement, a compromise between the original scantlings and modern structural assessment must be struck. The latter heavily relies on rules-based design, driven by formal regulations, though a number of empirical methods also exist. Consequently, to assess the comparative structural requirements between traditional small crafts, empirical methods and regulatory requirements, case studies will be undertaken on small crafts. Ultimately, the results showcase the differences between original specifications, the recommendation of simplified methods, and modern rules, with the latter allowing for weight savings.