Point-supported Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) floor systems offer architectural flexibility and material efficiency, enabling biaxial load transfer while minimizing reliance on traditional post-and-beam structures. However, the structural integrity of such systems is highly dependent on the design and performance of panel-to-panel and panel-to-column connections. This study examines these panel-to-panel connections through a comprehensive numerical modelling approach, evaluating both static and dynamic behaviour to inform early-stage design decisions.

To assess static behaviour, a bending moment estimation formula is developed, allowing engineers to approximate internal forces in panel joints without requiring extensive finite element simulations. This facilitates efficient preliminary design calculations for structural connections, emphasizing the crucial role of rotational stiffness at line hinges. The analysis demonstrates that actual bending moments transferred can be significantly lower than those assuming rigid continuity, particularly for connections with moderate to low stiffness. A unified reduction factor, derived from parametric studies, enables practical and reliable estimation of bending moments across various floor configurations.

For dynamic behaviour, vibrational performance is analysed using parametric simulations based on the HIVOSS methodology, revealing the interaction between connection stiffness, flexural stiffness and stiffness ratios on modal response characteristics. The findings underscore the importance of ensuring adequate connection stiffness to maintain floor vibration comfort and serviceability. Design graphs constructed from these simulations provide engineers with intuitive tools to evaluate vibrational performance and assess serviceability thresholds prior to detailed modelling.

The proposed splice plate connection with inclined screws is subjected to analytical and numerical validation using Python-based mechanical models and RFEM finite element (FE) simulations. Key design rules were established to optimize screw length and panel height. While the current models adequately support early-stage design, further refinement, particularly in modelling compressive force dispersion within lamellas could improve accuracy in predicting bending capacity.

A comparative case study between point-supported and conventional beam-supported CLT floor systems highlights architectural and structural trade-offs. The point-supported system offers increased free height and simplified structural layouts by eliminating continuous beams, which benefits architectural integration. However, these advantages come with increased timber volumes and more complex point and panel-to-panel connections requiring detailed engineering. Both systems can satisfy strength and serviceability demands, but the choice depends on project-specific priorities such as spatial efficiency, material availability and construction complexity.

The findings contribute to the development of design guidelines that bridge the gap between theoretical feasibility and practical implementation. By providing engineers with simplified estimation tools and validated numerical insights, this research aims to facilitate the broader adoption of point-supported CLT floors in modern day timber construction.

This research contributes practical design guidelines bridging theoretical modelling and real-world application. By providing simplified estimation tools, validated numerical insights and design aids for both static and dynamic performance, the study facilitates the broader adoption of point-supported CLT floors in modern timber construction.