Several tools for the prediction and the assessment of the structural behavior of masonry buildings have been developed in recent decades. Numerical tools have been favorably developed and preferred over analytical approaches, given the complex mechanical response of masonry and the irregular geometries of historic masonry buildings. In this chapter, a thorough review of numerical strategies for the analysis of masonry structures is presented. Additionally, classification of these strategies is also suggested to logically organize the extensive literature on this topic. Even though a wholly congruent categorization of all the numerical tools is essentially unrealistic given the specific aspects of each solution developed, the existing numerical strategies are subdivided into four classes: block-based models, continuum models, geometry-based models, and macroelement models. Each class is thoroughly reviewed and the open challenges in numerical modeling of masonry structures are critically examined.@en

Weirs are essential structures in sewer systems. Detailed knowledge on their hydraulic performance is necessary but difficult to obtain. In this research the applicability of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for deriving reliable discharge relationships for weirs where the weir chamber geometry limits the discharged flow is investigated. A unique combination of field measurements for a combined sewer overflow, lab experiments on a scale model, and CFD simulations for the scale model and prototype is available. In the CFD simulations no prior knowledge on the hydraulic behaviour of the weir was assumed to verify the application of CFD for both scientific and engineering purposes. The results show that i) unverified CFD simulations can describe the complex hydraulic behaviour occurring in the lab experiments including a flow regime change, ii) different discharge relationships are needed for different flow conditions, iii) unverified CFD is applicable to derive discharge relationships in the disturbed flow regime where backwater effects occur, but has no added value over the standard weir equation in the undisturbed regime, and iv) unverified CFD can be applied to determine the optimal sensor location. This study supplies a quantitative support to earlier publications based on unvalidated results.@en