In geotechnical engineering, uncertainty in soil parameters and structural conditions poses a significant challenge in design and decision-making. To mitigate these risks, sensitivity analysis has become an essential tool for evaluating the influence of various parameters on numerical model outcomes. This methodology not only facilitates design optimization but also reduces over-design and the costs associated with uncertainty during both the design and construction phases.
In recent years, high-performance cloud computing has revolutionized the way these analyses are conducted, enabling the processing of large data volumes in significantly reduced timeframes. The integration of Finite Element (FE) models with parallel computing architectures has enhanced the efficiency of geotechnical analyses, improving decision-making and resource optimization.
The Importance of Sensitivity Analysis in Geotechnical Projects
Sensitivity analysis is a technique that identifies which model parameters have the greatest impact on numerical simulation results. In geotechnical projects, this is crucial for:
Determining critical parameters that influence soil and structural response.
Optimizing designs by reducing uncertainties and avoiding unnecessary conservatism.
Prioritizing calibration efforts in numerical models through back-analysis.
Enhancing planning and execution of soil characterization campaigns.
Traditionally, performing this type of analysis required significant computational effort, as each parameter combination involved running multiple simulations in complex models. However, advances in cloud computing architectures have enabled these calculations to be scaled, reducing processing times from days to hours—or even minutes.
Cloud Computing: A Paradigm Shift in Geotechnical Simulation
The integration of numerical models with cloud computing platforms has marked a turning point in geotechnical engineering. This technological evolution allows sensitivity analyses to be performed with unprecedented scalability, achieving:
High-performance parallel computing: Execution of thousands of simulations simultaneously across multiple virtual machines.
Compatibility with leading software: Seamless integration with geotechnical modeling tools like PLAXIS and other FE programs.
Flexible parameter selection: Ability to evaluate soil and structural variables independently or in correlation.
Advanced results visualization: Intuitive graphical representation for rapid interpretation of parameter influence.
This digitized approach not only enhances analysis efficiency but also facilitates collaboration among multidisciplinary teams, centralizing data and enabling quick scenario comparisons.
Application in Geotechnical Projects: Reducing Costs and Risks
Design optimization in geotechnical engineering translates not only into improved structural efficiency but also into cost and risk reduction. Implementing advanced sensitivity analysis tools provides several key benefits:
Reduction of over-design: Identifying critical parameters prevents unnecessary structural oversizing.
Optimization of soil characterization testing: Helps focus investigation efforts on variables that significantly impact soil behavior.
Data-driven decision-making: Real-time access to results facilitates iteration and model adjustments during design and construction phases.
Drastically reduced computation times: Cloud computing accelerates processing, delivering faster results.
DAARWIN: The Platform That Powers Sensitivity Analysis in Geotechnics
The adoption of cloud computing has enabled the development of specialized platforms for sensitivity analysis, providing a comprehensive solution to optimize design and decision-making in geotechnical projects.
DAARWIN has emerged as one of the most powerful tools in this field, integrating Finite Element models with real project data and executing sensitivity analyses using a high-performance cloud architecture. Its ability to run thousands of simulations in parallel and present results through advanced visualizations offers an unparalleled competitive advantage.
If you want to learn more about how DAARWIN can transform your approach to geotechnical engineering and improve project efficiency, schedule a meeting with our team at the following link:
