Visualized Failure Prediction for the Masonry Great Wall

Abstract

The cultural, architectural, and historical heritage value of the Great Wall of China drives the need to maintain, rehabilitate, and restore its structural integrity from artificial and natural damage. In this study, a hybrid architectural visualization and structural collapse simulation of the Ming Great Wall (1368–1644 AD) are conducted in Blender based on the unit blocks and a physics engine (i.e., Bullet Constraint Builder). Visualized failure predictions caused by four damages, i.e., stone layer collapse, step collapse, parapet walls inward tilting, and stone layer bulge, are developed and performed on a strength basis. The main input parameters are brick dimensions, friction coefficient, and adhesive/glue strength, while the primary output includes collapse, and global and local stabilities. Finally, the results show that the combination of unit blocks and a physical engine can visually simulate the occurrence process of the Great Wall’s failures with preliminary engineering outcome, especially those related to collapse, and can also predict the adverse consequences of the precipitating factors.