Impact of modeling architectural detailing for predicting unreinforced masonry response to subsidence

In tunneling, attempts at using remote sensing as a less expensive alternative to traditional surveying for creating computational models of masonry buildings for better damage prediction raise fundamental questions as to the necessary data quality, as there is a direct relationship between quality and acquisition costs. To understand the implications of such choices, 16 finite element models were devised to investigate the impact of window shape, brick orientation, window size, and the presence of lintels. Responses were considered with respect to gravity loads and excavation-induced subsidence. Permutations of three common window shapes were modeled as representative of Georgian brick structures. The base model was benchmarked against large-scale experimental work using non-linear analysis. This study proves that a few simple assumptions can be used in reducing the complexity of building façades for computation without generating major errors in structural response prediction.