Deadline Date: 31 December 2026
Numerical methods have emerged as comprehensive tools for analyzing complex multi-physical field problems, particularly as computing power has increased significantly in recent years. Wood and wood products are among the oldest construction and manufacturing materials in human history; thanks to their natural, sustainable, and aesthetic properties, they remain important today. Traditionally, wood construction and furniture design have relied heavily on craftsmanship, experience, and intuitive approaches gained from past applications. However, today's engineering approach requires the scientific study of material behavior and the evaluation of performance criteria such as load-bearing capacity, deformation, and stability in light of mathematical theories. Relying solely on experience for strength design, particularly in furniture and wood structural elements, can lead to significant limitations in terms of safety, durability, and material efficiency. In contrast, mathematical modeling and numerical analysis methods enable the development of balanced, reliable, and optimized solutions that meet both aesthetic expectations and technical requirements.
The primary objective of this special issue is to examine the role of numerical methods in the design, analysis, and production processes of wood materials and wood products within a scientific framework and to bring together current research in this field. The natural, heterogeneous, and anisotropic structure of wood requires special approaches in terms of engineering calculations and performance predictions. In this regard, mathematical modeling, numerical analysis, and the use of computer-aided engineering tools contribute significantly to the development of safe, durable, economical, and aesthetically balanced designs for wood structural elements and wood products, especially furniture. This special issue aims to go beyond traditional experience-based approaches and promote the widespread use of scientific and numerical methods.
The scope of this special issue includes topics such as the numerical modeling of the mechanical and physical behavior of wood material, finite element analysis applications, optimization techniques, computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) approaches, structural performance and strength analyses, numerical investigation of fasteners, sustainable material use, and material efficiency. In addition, interdisciplinary studies aiming to balance aesthetic requirements with engineering criteria in the design of wood and wood-based products are also within the scope of this special issue. Highlighting the benefits offered by numerical methods, such as time savings, cost advantages, and design accuracy, and evaluating the applicability of these approaches on a broader scale within the industry are among the primary objectives of this special issue.
Suggested themes:
Numerical Analysis of Wood and Wood-Based Composite Materials
Finite Element Analysis of Wood Structures and Furniture Components
Strength and Performance-Based Wood Product Design
Numerical Analysis and Optimization of Fasteners
Optimization Techniques and Material Efficiency
CAD/CAM and Digital Manufacturing Technologies
Multi-Scale and Multi-Physics Numerical Modeling
Experimental Validation and Numerical Model Calibration
Artificial Intelligence and Data-Driven Numerical Methods
Sustainability and Life Cycle Analysis
Editorial board
