MASS™ can be readily used to perform masonry analysis rather than design. As a result, the program can be used as an exceptional learning and teaching tool.

To analyse an assemblage, users are required to follow the same steps as the ones followed to design an assemblage (refer to Section 2.7). There are a few minor differences users may wish to take note of and these are discussed in the following sections.

Assemblage Configuration (Analysis)

In the assemblage configuration design step, users are required to de-select all masonry unit sizes and masonry unit strengths except for the specific masonry unit users wish to use.

Moment and Deflection Design (Analysis)

It is necessary to complete the moment design step before going back to de-select the moment steel properties not required. Users can specify the location of any reinforcement using the ‘Minimum clearances’ box. For more information on the placement of reinforcing bars, refer to Section 3.2.3 (Beams), Section 4.2.3 (Walls) and Section 5.2.3 (Shear Walls) of this user manual.

Shear Design (Analysis)

It is necessary to complete the shear design step before going back to de-select the shear steel properties not required.

Bearing Design (Analysis)

It is necessary to complete the bearing design step before going back to alter any bearing plate properties. Note, however, that the bearing length is specified during the assemblage configuration design step, and cannot be altered during the bearing design step.

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