Visualization of Geotechnical Data for Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Response

Abstract

There is a need to understand the use and value of visualization of geotechnical data for mitigating hazards and responding to the consequences of disasters and extreme events. Hazards, disasters, and extreme events with a geotechnical basis include landslides, rockfalls, settlement, sinkholes, and many other events that can degrade or destroy a transportation system. Information was gathered by literature review, survey, and interviews. The findings reported in this study provide geotechnical leaders in transportation with an overview of what tools and techniques their colleagues are using and how effective those tools and techniques are for mitigating geotechnical hazards and responding to geotechnical disasters. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to geotechnical data visualization and the study methodology. Chapter 2 provides definitions and examples of hazards, disasters, and extreme events, including natural phenomena. Chapter 3 highlights geotechnical data types and sources, including: reconnaissance, exploration, and testing; instrumentation; remote sensing devices; and geophysical devices. Chapter 4 presents a literature review. Chapter 5 summarizes current geotechnical visualization technology, including spreadsheet software, boring log generators, fence diagram generators, laboratory software, general purpose database software, general purpose x-y graphing software, general purpose contouring software, geographical information systems, instrumentation software, image analysis software, web-based imaging systems, and other applications. Chapter 6 discusses current practice and experience, highlighting data management, geotechnical analysis, instrumentation, remote sensing data, hazard mitigation, disaster and extreme event response, long-term disaster recovery, visualization usage and experience, visualization users, and visualization issues. Chapter 7 highlights current research and development, including academic research and development, commercial development, open-source development, and innovative technologies. The final chapter summarizes conclusions and research opportunities.