2. Benchmark solution

2.1. Reference quantities and results

The solution to such a problem is, of course, obvious.

Step 1:

The two parts of the structure are detached: the lower part has zero displacement and the upper part has an overall movement equal to the displacement imposed at the top of the structure.

Step 2:

There is no horizontal movement. Vertically, the two parts of the structure are linked and act as a single block under compression. The displacement at the interface is equal to half of the movement at the top of the structure and the displacement jump is zero.

Step 3:

Horizontally, the lower part has zero displacement and the upper part has an overall movement equal to the displacement imposed at the top of the structure. Vertically, the two parts of the structure are linked and behave as a single block under tension. The displacement at the interface is equal to half of the movement at the top of the structure and the vertical displacement jump is zero.