Stan,
I've read this thread with interest. It's good to see the spirited discussion it has inspired. But-- have you had any luck finding your architect? I'd like to speak with you about your projects if you are interested.
My experience is with residential design. I've been working in the timber frame industry for 15 years. I have some familiarity with the connection system you describe, and I'm intrigued.

My apologies to the other readers of this board for the gratuitous commercial post.

Andrea Warchaizer
Springpoint, Inc
23 Comstock Rd
Alstead, NH 03602
603-835-2433
springpt@sover.net