A numerical model for masonry implemented in the framework of a dicrete formulation

A direct discrete formulation suitable for the nonlinear analysis of masonry structures ispresented. The numerical approach requires a pair of dual meshes, one for describing displacement fields,one for imposing equilibrium. Forces and displacements are directly used (instead of having to resort to amodel derived from a set of differential equations). Associated and nonassociated flow laws are dealt withwithin a complementarity framework. The main features of the method and of the relevant computer codeare discussed. Numerical examples are presented, showing that the numerical approach is able to describeplastic strains, damage effects and crack patterns in masonry structures.