RIGID-BLOCK ANALYSIS OF MASONRY STRUCTURES

This paper describes a conceptually simple and computationally efficient method of determining the collapse load of structures comprising of a number of masonry blocks. The method uses the upper- bound theory of plasticity in conjunction with geometrical compatibility criteria to obtain solutions to problems involving single- and multi-span arches; well established rigorous linear programming methods are used to obtain solutions. Specific parameters such as ring separation and attached spandrel walls can be modelled using the method. It is expected that case studies will be described in subsequent papers. (A)