Assessment of Masonry Arch Behaviour through Photogrammetric Models and the Finite Element Method

This document presents a multidisciplinary approach to documentation and assessment of masonry arch bridges, integrating digital close range photogrammetry processes, computer-aided design and engineering techniques, using finite element analysis. Close range photogrammetry can generate high fidelity 3D models with the actual geometry of each element that forms the bridge. This level of detail allows to build up an accurate arches micro-model for structural analysis. This model discretizes and analyzes each voissoir separately, considering the individual geometry and the behavior of each unit in contact with no tensile strength in the joints. For failure load estimation process, the graph of loads versus displacement is obtained through an iterative computation process in which live load has been gradually increased.