Question $(1)$

$($a$)$ The spliced connection shown in Figure $1,$ is under the effect of an axial tension load $(N^{**}=15kN)$ originating from permanent actions only and acting along the grains of the timber member. The connection utilises two steel plates to transfer the load from one piece of timber to the other via $2-$M$12$ bolts in double shear. The timber member is $190$X$45$ F$17$ seasoned hardwood sourced from Mountain Ash species.

Assuming that the steel plates are sufficiently thick and that timber governs the connection capacity, check the adequacy of the connection to transfer the applied load. Assume that the connection is in a primary roof truss in a Melbourne warehouse building.

$($b$)$ If the bolted connection in part $($a$)$ was replaced with a nailed connection with plywood gusset plates replacing the steel splice plates, then how many $3\mathrm{.}15mm$ diameter plain shank steel nails one would need to adequately support the applied load? In your answer you should check the minimum requirements for end distance, edge distance, spacing along and across the grain.