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Metodi Numerici per la Geotecnica
Numerical Methods for Geotechnical Engineering
Evghenia Sakellariadi

Seat Ingegneria
A.A. 2015/2016
Credits 6
Hours 48
Period I
Language ENG

Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of the subject-matters of Strength of Materials, Hydraulics and Soil Mechanics courses

Learning outcomes
The course aims at equipping students with the necessary knowledge in order to deal with the solution of typical geotechnical problems using both traditional methods and implementation of numerical schemes. Through the guided solution of several exercises, students develop the capacity to perform the various choices necessary for the solution of geotechnical problems by means of specific software.

Program
Characteristics of soil behaviour and modelling. Field equations for porous media; seepage and consolidation. Constitutive models appropriate for soil mechanics. Numerical methods and models for solving typical geotechnics problems and interpretation of results obtained. The finite element method. Verification and validation of numerical analyses. Elasto-plastic model. Methods and principles for interpretation of numerical analysis results and for comparison with results obtained through traditional methods. Choice of appropriate values for geotechnical parameters. Analysis of some typical problems (settlement calculations, design of foundations, consolidation)

Development of the examination
LEARNING EVALUATION METHODS
Final assessment is via an oral exam. The topics discussed vary depending upon the specific learning option chosen by the student. In the first learning option (continuous assessment) students are required to attend lectures and practical sessions and to work out the proposed exercises, discuss the results obtained and make all corrections and modifications, during term time and alongside the course advancement. In this case the oral exam will merely consist in a sum-up discussion of the work carried out during the course. In the second learning option students must still work out the exercises proposed during the course, but may do so in their own time. In the oral exam two or three topics regarding the course subjects will be discussed. Among these may be included some aspect referring to the practical exercises. The two learning options are equivalent with regard to final assessment.

LEARNING EVALUATION CRITERIA
In order to pass the examination students must demonstrate basic understanding of the Finite Element method and how it can be used for solving typical problems of geotechnical engineering. In particular they must show a good comprehension of the basic assumptions and limitations, and they must be able to make all necessary choices for setting up an analysis and be conscious of the consequences these choices have on the final results; finally, they must be capable of understanding and interpreting correctly the results obtained, and must know how to usefully compare them to the results of a traditional analysis. To obtain maximum grades students must exhibit thorough understanding of all course topics, particular awareness of the implications of all analysis choices, and excellent capacity for understanding and interpreting the results obtained.

LEARNING MEASUREMENT CRITERIA
A single final mark with a maximum of 30 is assigned.

FINAL MARK ALLOCATION CRITERIA
The final mark is assigned taking into consideration the degree of attainment of the following goals: -- general knowledge: the Finite Element method for typical geotechnics problems, modelling techniques and specific models for geotechnics; -- skills: setting up a FE analysis, modelling choices, interpretation of results, comparison with results obtained through traditional analysis. For students who have chosen continuous assessment a separate mark will be given for the discussion of each guided exercise introduced during the course, while the final oral exam will only serve as a confirmation. For the remaining students a separate mark will be given for each topic discussed during the exam. Minimum grade for passing the exam is given to students exhibiting basic understanding of the course subjects. Higher marks reflect the amount to which students will integrate theoretical aspects discussed during the course into their work on the exercises. Maximum marks or the ”cum laude” credit will be assigned to students who exhibit thorough understanding and command of the subject, and who are capable of justifying all analysis choices made, expressing concepts in articulate and technically correct language. The working-out of the proposed exercises, even though a necessary condition for passing the examination, is not in itself appointed a separate mark. Likewise, producing written papers to illustrate the solution of the exercises, though useful as a learning tool and as such suitable for study enhancement, is always considered an optional activity and as such conveys no contribution towards the final mark.

Recommended reading
I.M. Smith and D.V. Griffiths, ”Programming the Finite Element Method”, 3rd edition, John Wiley & sons. R. Nova, ”Fondamenti di meccanica delle terre”, McGraw - Hill D.M. Wood, ”Geotechnical modelling”, Spon Press – Taylor & Francis Group D.M. Pott

Courses

• Ingegneria Civile (Corso di Laurea Magistrale (DM 270/04))