Advanced Numerical Methods in Geotechnics

Code:

PRODEC042

Acronym:

MNAG

Keywords
Classification	Keyword
OFICIAL	Civil Engineering - Geotechnics

Instance: 2015/2016 - 1S

Active?	Yes
Responsible unit:	Geotechnics Division
Course/CS Responsible:	Doctoral Program in Civil Engineering

Cycles of Study/Courses

Acronym	No. of Students	Study Plan	Curricular Years	Credits UCN	Credits ECTS	Contact hours	Total Time
PRODEC	1	Syllabus since 2007/08	1	-	5	45	135

Teaching language

Portuguese

Objectives

To understand the fundamentals of the Finite Element Method (FEM) and how to use it in the solution of geotechnical problems.

Learning outcomes and competences

To perform geotechnical analyses using FEM-based software involving mesh definition, the choice of the appropriate elements and interpretation of results.

Working method

Presencial

Program

Numerical methods and their importance in Geotechnical Engineering. General aspects of the finite element method; application fields; formulations. Finite element methods in material and/or geometrically non-linear problems. Topics of geotechnical relevance; constitutive laws; modelling of structural components; modelling of interfaces; boundary conditions and initial conditions; initial stress state; staged construction; excavations; embankments; applications; Finite element method in seepage problems; potential and stream function formulations; confined and unconfined seepage; applications; Finite element methods in consolidation problems; Finite element method in soil dynamics problems.

DEMONSTRATION OF THE SYLLABUS COHERENCE WITH THE CURRICULAR UNIT'S OBJECTIVES:

The use of FEM-based software enables the achievement of the objectives, allowing namely to understand the fundamentals of the Finite Element Method and its application to geotechnical problems

Mandatory literature

Potts, D. M.; Zdravkovic, L.; Finite element analysis in geotechnical engineering: theory, Thomas Telford, London, 1999.
Potts, D. M.; Zdravkovic, L.; Finite element analysis in geotechnical engineering: application, Thomas Telford, London, 2001.

Teaching methods and learning activities

The course involves sessions with theoretical presentations and discussions. The student grading will be based on a report assignment and a written exam if necessary.

DEMONSTRATION OF THE COHERENCE BETWEEN THE TEACHING METHODOLOGIES AND THE LEARNING OUTCOMES:

The report assignment and the discussion of the course contents allows for an efficient learning experience at this education level.

 

Evaluation Type

Distributed evaluation without final exam

Assessment Components

Designation	Weight (%)
Trabalho escrito	100,00
Total:	100,00

Amount of time allocated to each course unit

Designation	Time (hours)
Estudo autónomo	0,00
Total:	0,00

Calculation formula of final grade

Average of the marks of the assignments proposed.