Numerical investigation of non-linear equivalent-frame models for regular masonry walls

摘要: Abstract The accuracy of the Equivalent Frame Method (EFM) in modelling seismic non-linear behaviour unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings is investigated for regular walls (i.e. with openings’ distribution) different pier-to-spandrel geometrical relations. developed EFM composed pier and spandrel elements spread plasticity to simulate flexural lumped shear behaviour. investigation focuses on checking, by means comparison Finite Element Model (FEM) assumed as reference, applicability existing buildings. These structures are often characterized schemes difficult be represented ideal frames. To point out role configuration, numerical results provided two approaches compared representative cases pier-spandrel configurations rather typical URM In addition innovative approach, based a fiber discretized beam element, also more traditional plasticity, included comparative study. were implemented software Midas GEN © [44], while an open source was used implement FEM (Kratos Multiphysics [59–60]). All models perform static analyses under equivalent loading boundary conditions. evaluation derived from simulation two-storey wall experimentally tested other researchers. Two alternative definition piers’ effective heights EFM, i.e. proposed Dolce [1] Augenti [2]. demonstrate that remarkable differences may detected predictions capacity damage mechanisms function configurations. This result highlights need cautious application structures.