Interpretation of the behaviour of masonry arches and domes by simple models

Abstract

The prediction of the structural behaviour is of crucial importance for a good design as well as for critical validation of the results of sophisticated computerbased analyses. This is the reason why simple models are nowadays essential because they provide easy and accessible understanding of fundamental aspects of the structural response. The present work is a contribution to the search of simple models to understand the relation between Form and Structure. In this article, by using the Load Path Method, the behaviour of arches and domes, when subjected to gravitational and symmetrical loads has been analysed. © 2013 WIT Press.