A model updating procedure to enhance structural analysis in the FE code NOSA-ITACA

TL;DR

This paper presents a model updating procedure in NOSA-ITACA to improve the accuracy of structural analysis of masonry structures by matching experimental data, demonstrated on historical structures.

Contribution

It introduces a novel model updating method for finite-element analysis of masonry structures, enhancing accuracy in historical building assessments.

Findings

Improved matching of experimental frequencies and mode shapes.

Successful application to historical masonry structures.

Enhanced robustness of the numerical method.

Abstract

This paper describes the model updating procedure implemented in NOSA-ITACA, a finite-element code for the structural analysis of masonry constructions of historical interest. The procedure, aimed at matching experimental frequencies and mode shapes, allows fine-tuning calculation of the free parameters in the model. The numerical method is briefly described, and some issues related to its robustness are addressed. The procedure is then applied to a simple case study and two historical structures in Tuscany, the Clock Tower in Lucca and the Maddalena bridge in Borgo a Mozzano.