Accelerating the Adoption of the Solid Panel Structural System

Solid panel structural system.

PROJECT INFORMATION

Team: University of Minnesota NorthernSTAR

Building Component: Envelope

Application: New Construction

Climate Zones: All

The University of Minnesota NorthernSTAR team has developed a novel studless building system called the Solid Panel Structure (SPS) that uses a plate-like approach and follows Joseph Lstiburek’s “perfect wall” layering principles.

This project comes after a previous NorthernSTAR study that demonstrated potential for using SPS technology in new homes based on performance, constructability, and cost but revealed the need for more data on structural behavior and performance.

To follow up, project partners developed and completed comprehensive testing to fully characterize the system’s structural behavior. Results indicated the system:

  • Is a candidate for an International Code Council Evaluation Service report for simplified code compliance.
  • May be useful for modular and manufactured housing.
  • Has potential to serve as a structural enhancement to light-frame construction.

The team leveraged test results to create a step-by-step guide for architects and engineers to use for design and code approval.

The team also surveyed builders and contractors to investigate issues that may impact market acceptance and use. This research revealed a range of perceived benefits and concerns. Ideal use cases included affordable housing.

Both the structural testing and market survey results suggest the system has strong potential for production homebuilding.

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