Practical Use of Rock Mechanical Software

Numerical modelling in geomechanics, in 2D and 3D.

Practical use of RS2 for 2D elastic and plastic modelling, and EX3 for 3D elastic modelling. Hands-on experience with model construction, input parameters, computation, result analysis, post-processing and reporting. Simulation of rock excavation, in situ rock stress and rock support. Other types of relevant programs may also be used in the course.

Expertise:

After the course is completed the student shall be able to:

- contribute to solving engineering geological and rock mechanical problems by using numerical tools (software programs), incl. RS2 and EX3;

- reflect on the role played by uncertainties in the input parameters in computational geomechanics;

- elaborate knowledge and skills acquired in the course and use them for more efficient use of rock mechanical software;

- learn quicker other software codes beyond those used in the course.

Knowledge and skills: After completing this course the student shall be able to:

- use numerical tools for rock mechanical computations;

- command modern methods used for visualization and analysis of rock mechanical data in 2D and 3D;

- understand and explain differences between, strengths and weaknesses of different geomechanical programs;

- choose the optimal programs for specific applications within computational geomechanics;

- understand the theory behind the most popular numerical methods used in modern computational geomechanics (FEM, BEM, DEM) and how it affects their application;

- model natural fractures, rock support and failure in rock masses;

- carry out a computational project in rock mechanics;

- report the results from a computational rock mechanical study;

- understand the principles behind verification and calibration of numerical models;

- utilize different failure criteria in numerical models.

Weekly colloquia, compulsory exercises, and project assignment. The course is evaluated by a reference group or via a questionnaire.