Archie-M

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Archie-M is a Windows program (Windows XP, Vista and 7) designed to help with the analysis of masonry bridges and viaducts. It is based on the principle of the thrust line, but goes rather farther than that. It can be used as part of the assessment or design process. It is quick to use and demonstrably conservative.

Archie-M provides rapid, interactive equilibrium analysis of arching structures. The program is a result of nearly 30 years of research and consultancy.

Archie-M uses the zone of thrust to define the minimum structure necessary to support a given set of loads. Graphical and numerical results are updated continuously as loads are moved across the structure by hand or automatically. The engineer is able to explore the potential for different load paths to transmit loads to the foundations.

Who should use Archie-M?

Archie-M is an engineering tool. It does not pretend to deliver an immediate solution to the problem of assessment. Assessment will always be a matter of judgment at some point. Our aim, from the beginnings in 1984 and for the future, is to help guide the user to the areas where judgment is best exercised and where its effects will be most valuable. Using Archie-M it should be possible to gain confidence in a structure until you feel secure in confirming its strength.

Who uses Archie-M?

Archie-M is used by over one hundred organisations including consultants, local authorities and other bridge owners.

Archie-M is supported on email, telephone and this website, as well as through a network of users coordinated by OBVIS as the Archie Users' Group.