Analysing Block Stability under Varying Resultant Force for Arbitrary Shapes

Abstract

Block theory is a basis theory in Rock mechanism taking advantages of analysing finiteness, removability, and mechanical stability of convex blocks under different engineering conditions. However, classic block theory does not give solutions for non-convex blocks which are very common in civil project, such as underground edges, corners, and portals. To enhance availability of block theory, a general algorithm which can analyse stability of blocks with arbitrary shapes is proposed in this paper. In the proposed algorithm, the joint pyramid for block of arbitrary shapes can be computed, sliding mode of block under varying resultant force can be seen immediately from 3D view by means of an interactive visualization mechanism, and parallel or nonadjacent sliding faces of blocks are determined immediately for given resultant force. With this algorithm, blocks of arbitrary shapes can be analysed, and users do not need to interpret graphs of block theory to take advantage of its accuracy and effectiveness. The validation of the proposed algorithm is verified, and it was used to investigate the stability of the left bank rock slope of a dam. The results show that the algorithm is correct, effective, and feasible for use in rock engineering project.