Conventional numerical methods of slope analysis are mainly based on continuum approximation of the rock mass and the assumption of shear failure. Slope Model utilizes a novel approach that performs simulations of selected 3D sectors of rock slope stability in hard, fractured rock masses, consisting of any number of planar benches. The software implements a version of the Synthetic Rock Mass (SRM) approach (Pierce et al., 2007) applied to the specific case of rock slopes. SRM allows movement on joints (sliding and opening) as well as fracture of intact rock. The rock mass contains joint segments derived from a user-specified DFN (discrete fracture network).
Non-steady fluid flow and pressure within the network of joint segments are modeled, and several aspects of fluid-rock interaction are represented, such as effective stress (for sliding behavior) and pressure response due to changes in rock geometry (e.g., bench removal). This three-dimensional modeling software is based on a lattice scheme that handles discontinuities and new fractures in the same way as Distinct Element Method (DEM), but is five to ten times faster. Fluid flows in the joints and rock matrix, and the flow network is automatically extended as new fractures form.
Slope failure through fracture of intact rock bridges modeled with Slope Model; black dots indicate stress-induced cracks (Lorig et al., 2010).
