Improved inverse analysis methods and modified apparent earth pressure for braced excavations in soft clay

Abstract

Inverse analysis procedures are used to update project parameters and applied to predict future performance in the later stages. However, the inverse analysis procedure of earth pressure of excavation has received less attention. This paper proposes an improved inverse analysis method and the modified apparent earth pressure model for braced excavations in soft clay. A new procedure for inverse analysis of excavation is suggested based on the quintic spline interpolation function, and a trial algorithm is used to eliminate the errors generated in the inverse process. The proposed inverse solutions are validated by numerical simulations and reported engineering examples and show good agreements. Based on the inverse data and empirical apparent pressure diagram (APD), a modified apparent earth pressure method for braced excavations in soft clay is further suggested. And the relationship between the degree of anisotropy of soft clay and apparent earth pressure coefficients is discussed. The study results provide a reference for dynamic feedback design and adaptive management of the excavation.