A quick scan for the safety analysis of masonry and bridges

Using a 2D decision support system based on a recent analytical model, this paper is the first to demonstrate that bridge specific characteristics require a detailed analysis to determine the collapse load. Because of the complexity of finite element modelling and the computation time requirements of 3D finite elements models for a large number of load positions, it is regularly assumed that collapse positions are situated at the crown of the arc. Empirical testing in this paper clearly demonstrates that this is not the case. The here developed approach allows for a quick scan of any type of masonry bridge, thus providing the necessary information on the critical range of load positions to be analyzed in more detail by a 3D modelling approach.