Fig. 2.
From: Conceptual multi-scale dynamic rupture model for the 2011 off the Pacific coast of Tohoku Earthquake
Conceptual dynamic models based on multi-scale heterogeneous patches: Fracture energy (half of critical slip-weakening distance (Dc) multiplied by a strength drop in the slip weakening law) in the top panels, and stress excess required for rupture initiation (difference between fault strength τp and initial stress) at the bottom. The area of the smallest fracture energy and zero stress excess corresponds to an initial crack. The largest ellipse patch (1st order) is surrounded by an unbreakable barrier. Model A: Only the 1st order patch. Model B: Combination of the 1st and 2nd order patches. Model C: Combination of the 1st and 3rd patches. Model D: The same as Model C, but the accumulated stress is less except for the centered area.