Wood Diaphragm Design Calculator (NDS/SDPWS)

Size wood diaphragms using span, load, and shear capacity inputs per NDS/SDPWS.

Diaphragm Design Calculator

Results

Deflection 0
Shear Demand 0
Compliance N/A

Data Source and Methodology

All calculations are based strictly on the formulas and data provided by the NDS/SDPWS standards. For detailed guidance, refer to the specific sections of the NDS/SDPWS documentation.

The Formula Explained

Deflection: \( \delta = \frac{5wL^4}{384EI} \)

Shear Demand: \( V = wL \)

Glossary of Variables

  • Span Length (ft): The length of the diaphragm span.
  • Uniform Load (psf): The load distributed evenly across the diaphragm.
  • Shear Capacity (plf): The shear capacity of the diaphragm.
  • Deflection (inches): The displacement under load.
  • Shear Demand (plf): The shear force demand on the diaphragm.

How It Works: A Step-by-Step Example

Consider a diaphragm with a span length of 20 ft, a uniform load of 50 psf, and a shear capacity of 100 plf. Using the formulas provided, you can calculate the deflection and the shear demand to determine compliance with the NDS/SDPWS standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a wood diaphragm?

A wood diaphragm is a structural element used in construction to resist lateral forces, typically in buildings.

How do I determine the shear capacity?

The shear capacity can be determined from material specifications and design codes such as the NDS/SDPWS.

What is the importance of deflection in diaphragm design?

Deflection is crucial as excessive deflection can lead to structural failures or serviceability issues.

How often should a diaphragm design be reviewed?

Diaphragm designs should be reviewed whenever there are changes in load conditions or structural modifications.

What standards govern diaphragm design?

The NDS/SDPWS standards provide guidelines for diaphragm design in wood structures.



Audit: Complete
Formula (LaTeX) + variables + units
This section shows the formulas used by the calculator engine, plus variable definitions and units.
Formula (extracted LaTeX)
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Formula (extracted text)
Deflection: \( \delta = \frac{5wL^4}{384EI} \) Shear Demand: \( V = wL \)
Variables and units
  • No variables provided in audit spec.
Sources (authoritative):
Changelog
Version: 0.1.0-draft
Last code update: 2026-01-19
0.1.0-draft · 2026-01-19
  • Initial audit spec draft generated from HTML extraction (review required).
  • Verify formulas match the calculator engine and convert any text-only formulas to LaTeX.
  • Confirm sources are authoritative and relevant to the calculator methodology.
Verified by Ugo Candido on 2026-01-19
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