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DIALOG Files Global Patents for Hybrid Timber Floor System

December 8, 2021

In a significant step to advance a design concept awarded as the winner of Fast Company‘s “2021 World Changing Ideas” in architecture earlier this year, this week DIALOG officially filed for the patent of our Hybrid Timber Floor System (HTFS). Once approved, the system could lead to the introduction of mass timber structural solutions into the supertall tower category, thus significantly reducing the environmental impact of tall building development in high density urban areas.

“Floor plates typically comprise approximately 70% of building material utilized in high-rise towers. By focusing our talents and resources on creating more innovative floor plate solutions like this one, we believe that we can make a major dent in the environmental footprint of the built environment in the not-so-distant future,” said Craig Applegath, DIALOG Partner, and one of the project’s key leaders.

“This HTFS will maximize the use of sustainably harvested wood in high-rise construction in the most cost efficient, energy efficient, and elegant manner. In doing so, the design will also give occupants access to sustainable, beautiful, exposed natural wood in their spaces,” said Thomas Wu, DIALOG Partner and structural engineer.

In addition to the Fast Company award, the details of the hybrid floor system were recently published in a significant industry research paper by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitats, a preview of which can be found here.

Once the patents are approved, the structural system will then require localized approvals to coincide with area code requirements around fire, health, and life safety. While awaiting patent approval, DIALOG is working in partnership with global construction firm EllisDon to develop scaled panels for thorough structural testing.

“The hybrid panel presents a unique value proposition allowing for carbon sustainability, the ability for offsite prefabrication, and long-span exposed ceilings desired by many commercial tenants,” said Mark Gaglione, P.E. the Director of Building and Material Sciences with EllisDon, “We are excited to be working with DIALOG to help make this concept idea a reality as soon as possible.”