Modeling Shake-Table Tests of a Masonry Cross Vault Through the MADY Code

This paper deals with numerical simulations on the dynamic behavior of a masonry cross vault when subjected to seismic actions. The comprehensive investigation presented here stems from the post-diction phase of a blind-prediction competition organized within the SERA project. The MADY software, specifically developed for masonry structures is used, employing a simple yet effective finite element shell model. After calibrating the model in the dynamic domain, non-linear dynamic analyses were conducted for both unstrengthened and strengthened configurations. The results were then compared with experimental data obtained from shaking table tests on the specimen; crack patterns, displacements and accelerations time histories, maximum displacements and accelerations values were assessed. The numerical simulations of the experimental tests show a fair agreement with the results. The study provides valuable insights into the challenges and potential of numerical modeling and analysis of masonry structures, highlighting the promising aspects of the MADY code.