Methods
Methods in geotechnical engineering encompass experiments, measurements and calculations. The experiments are devided into laboratory experiments and field tests. Geotechnical calculations are carried out using (classical) analytical or numerical methods. A particular development is the "GBB Soft" code. This is a computing system that is particularly suitable for dimensioning embankment and bed protection measures.
- Geotechnical laboratory testing
Geotechnical laboratory experiments are carried out on disturbed and undisturbed soil and rock samples. After sampling, the specimens are initially identified, described and classified according to EN ISO 14688 and further tests are stipulated.
more ...- Geotechnical field tests
Field tests include alongside direct ground explorations (borings and trial pits), indirect exploration methods using sounding apparatus, as well as geophysical and seismic measurements. The indirect methods make it possible to explore the condition of the ground while causing only minimum disturbance, if any, to the ground structure.
more ...- Geotechnical measurements
Geotechnical measurements (static, dynamic, hydraulic) serve on the one hand to monitor earthworks and structures after completion or during new construction work. On the other hand, they are indispensable when designing building structures on the basis of the observation method, when numerical predictions for various stages of construction progress are compared with real behaviour. It is thus possible to optimize the on-going computing steps.
more ...- Analytical methods
Analytical methods are the classical calculation methods used in geotechnical engineering to determine geotechnical failure based on rigid-plastic failure bodies, and to calculate deformations based on elastic material behaviour. To this group belong also methods for defining the distribution of water pressure and the groundwater flow.
more ...- Numerical methods
Numerical methods such as the finite element method (FEM) are better than any other method when it comes to investigating deformations in the ground, groundwater flow and groundwater pressure distribution and the interaction effects of ground, structure and groundwater, but they do need advanced codes and constitutive laws and expect extensive experience of the user.
more ...- GBB-Soft
GBBSoft is a software for the design of bank and bottom protection works on inland waterways. It is used in particular when standard building methods cannot be used because of the specific boundary conditions of the project.
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