Jay C. WC: Incredible Video(s) on Absolute Precision Japanese Timber Framing.

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It's amazing when computers can do that with laser-cut steel. Wood is not nearly as "uniform" and this is all by hand.

Brian H. wrote:It's amazing when computers can do that with laser-cut steel. Wood is not nearly as "uniform" and this is all by hand.

Hi Brian...

Thanks for sharing this with everyone...

I am glad others are studying and learning from these ancient methods. I often employ joints just like this in my work, and teach the methods to others. Asian modalities of timber framing are the oldest unbroken forms in the world with some families of 大工 (Daiku) tracing their ancestors involvement in timber framing and carpenter back over 1000 years...

Below is an example of the one of the joints, a "free spline" found in the video. This one is in a pasture "Run In Shed" for cattle, sheep and horses here in Vermont.

Understanding wood and its many characteristics is what makes woodworking such a challenge and so enjoyable. Modern methods in steel, concrete and other modern mediums can emulate these acient system...yet only resemble a shadow of the originals in many applications.