vaults, analytical and numerical approaches, thrust line theory, fi nite elements, masonry arch on spreading supports, barrel vaults, cross vaults, practical assessment
sklepienia, podejście analityczne i numeryczne, teoria linii ciśnień, elementy skończone, łuk murowany, sklepienie kolebkowe, sklepienie krzyżowe, oszacowanie praktyczne
Abstrakt
The present contribution discusses various approaches towards the numerical analysis of arches, particularly finite element methods based on a continuum mechanics approach vs. rigid-body approaches. We employ beam elements and a simple model for the interaction between axial compression and bending. The model is based on the assumption that cracks follow the radial joints, and on a simplified concept of incorporating finite compressive strength. We establish a transition from finite element methods to rigid body methods by the introduction of discrete hinges in the course of an incremental finite element analysis. We show that rigid body methods based on the “thrust zone” approach developed by Harvey et al. (1990) render sharp estimates of the ultimate loads, and that the “thust zone” concept provides valuable estimates for large displacements. Finally, we extend the rigid-body approach to the case of barrel vaults with lunettes.
