Analysis of the current construction performance of the Great Wall of China in Jinshanling

Abstract

This research study focuses on the Jinshanling segment of the Great Wall of China. Site investigations, data collection and non-destructive examinations of various parts of the structure have resulted in a detailed analysis of the performance of both the wall and the towers of the Jinshanling segment. A satisfactory performance can be attributed to the use of rubble-filled core and bedrock foundations, levelled stone and brickwork, and lower-density materials towards the top of the structure and large columns to support heavier loads within the towers, among other factors. Suggested causes for deterioration of the wall include design issues and construction workmanship, lack of post-construction maintenance, natural weather and other events. The overall performance of the middle Jinshanling section of the Great Wall is satisfactory, but renovations are needed in both the eastern and western Jinshanling sections to prevent further damage.

A Multimedia User-experience System with 3-D Simulation for the Construction Process of Nanwang Water Diversion Pivotal Project on China's Grand Canal

“…Numerous applications of graphical simulation for educational purposes have been discussed and conducted previously, including the graphical simulation of the Temple with the Wudian Roof [8], the Great Wild Goose Pagoda [9] and the Great Wall [10] in China. These explorations have indicated the feasibility of the graphical simulation application in education domain.…”

Educational Application of Virtual Reality in Graphical Simulation of the Construction Process of Chinese Dougong

“…The major functions of dougong in ancient Chinese buildings are the following: 1) to transfer the weight of the beams and roofs to pillars as a connector, because of its unique levellike structure, it can significantly reduce the moment loading on the beams and girders and then protecting the building from excessive load; 2) to absorb seismic energy into their mortise-andtenon connection structure and timber materials, owing to their anti-seismic performance; 3) to extend the eaves of roofs and avoid the rainwater pouring into the portico of the building, and thus prevent the structural components from deterioration due to excessive humidity; and 4) to provide an aesthetically pleasing element to the building structure. 12 .…”