Equilibrium systems : studies in masonry structure

Abstract

This thesis presents new interactive computational analysis tools for masonry structures based on limit state analysis. Thrust lines are used to clearly visualize the forces within the masonry and to predict possible collapse modes. The models are interactive and parametric to explore the relation between the different geometrical parameters and the possible equilibrium conditions. Collapse mechanism analyses are determined by combining kinematics and statics. Complex three-dimensional problems are analyzed using the same methods. This thesis presents a series of analysis tools that are fast and easy to use, but at the same time rigorous and highly accurate.