ON THE USE OF POINT CONTACT MODELS FOR COLLAPSE MECHANISM AND DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF MASONRY STRUCTURES

Abstract eng:
In this paper, we discuss the main issues concerning the use of point-based models to represent contact interactions in computational limit analysis and non-smooth contact dynamics of masonry structures. To investigate the response of masonry structures, numerical models composed of rigid blocks interacting at contact points located at the vertexes of the interfaces are used. A no-tension behavior with finite friction and infinite compressive strength is assumed at contact interfaces. The limit analysis problem and the contact dynamic problem are formulated in terms of equilibrium equations, which relate external and contact forces, kinematic equations, which ensure compatibility between contact displacement rates and block degrees of freedom, and additional relationships to model the behavior of contacts. Mathematical programming is used to solve the optimization problems arising from both limit analysis and the dynamic of the block assemblages. The accuracy and computational efficiency of the implemented formulations are discussed with reference to case studies selected from the literature.

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