Substructuring technique in nonlinear analysis of brick masonry subjected to concentrated load. (English) Zbl 0624.73083

Ali, S.; Moore, I. D.; Page, A. W.

Comput. Struct. 27, 417-425 (1987).

A multi-level substructuring technique and a mesh grading scheme are used in the nonlinear finite element analysis of brick masonry subjected to in-plane concentrated loads. Masonry structures are ideally suited for solution using these techniques since masonry consists of a regular assemblage of bricks and joints in a repetitive pattern. Large wall panels can therefore be modelled without the need for excessive computer storage requirements. It is shown that the dual application of these techniques is highly efficient and leads to significant savings in costs. The possibility of modelling the elastic region of brick masonry as an isotropic continuum using similar techniques is also considered.

MSC:

74S05	Finite element methods applied to problems in solid mechanics
74E30	Composite and mixture properties
74R05	Brittle damage

Keywords:

elasto-plastic fracture; plastic deformation; nonlinear material characteristics; progressive local cracking; multi-level substructuring technique; mesh grading scheme; nonlinear finite element analysis; brick masonry; in-plane concentrated loads; isotropic continuum