A cellular automata method for mapping variation in behavior of laterally loaded masonry wall panel

This paper introduces a cellular automata (CA) modeling method for describing the variation in the failure/cracking pattern of laterally loaded masonry wall panel. Concept of Generalized Similar Zones is put forward and the CA technique proposed by Zhou is used to map the failure/cracking pattern. Then state variation coefficient is proposed and applied to the CA technique, which enable the variation in the failure/cracking pattern of the new panel could be mapped to an extent. Finally, the concept and the CA technique developed in this study is verified through a series of comparisons between mapped failure/cracking patterns and experimental patterns.