DEEPEX 2020 – USER’S MANUAL

USER’ S MANUAL
DeepEX software program (Version 2020)

Document Version 20.0.0.1

Issued: 31-Dec-2019

www.deepexcavation.com

www.deepex.com

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Table of Contents
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................ 2
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO DeepEX ........................................................................................ 9
1.1 About DeepEX (Deep Excavation Engineering Program)..................................................... 10
1.2 Software Compatibility & Installation ................................................................................. 10
1.3 Support & Technical Assistance ........................................................................................... 10
1.4 DeepEX training and examples............................................................................................ 11
1.5 End User License Agreement .............................................................................................. 12
1.6 What is new! ....................................................................................................................... 15
1.7 DeepEX Basic Version and Additional Optional Modules ................................................... 15
1.8 DeepEX Licensing and Annual Maintenance ....................................................................... 19
1.9 Activating and Transferring a DeepEX single Standard License........................................... 19
1.7.2 Activating the network license ......................................................................................... 22
CHAPTER 2: INTRODUCTION TO DEEP EXCAVATIONS ................................................................... 23
2.1 Deep Excavations Background............................................................................................. 24
2.2. Retaining systems for deep excavations............................................................................. 25
2.2.1. Soldier Pile and Lagging Walls ................................................................................. 25
2.2.2. Sheet Pile Walls........................................................................................................ 26
2.2.3. Secant Pile Walls ...................................................................................................... 27
2.2.4. Soil Mix Walls ........................................................................................................... 28
2.2.5. Diaphragm Walls (Slurry walls US)........................................................................... 29
2.3 Support systems for deep excavations ................................................................................ 30
2.3.1. Tiebacks/Rock Anchors ............................................................................................ 30
2.3.2. Cross-lot/Internal Bracing ........................................................................................ 32
2.3.3. Top/Down Construction........................................................................................... 33
2.4.Deep Excavations – Analysis Methods ................................................................................ 34
2.4.1. Conventional Limit Equilibrium Analysis Method (LEM) ......................................... 35
2.4.2. Non-Linear (Beam on elastoplastic foundations) Method (NL) .............................. 35
2.4.3. Limit Equilibrium and Non-Linear Analysis Combination Method (LEM+NL) ......... 35
2.4.4. Finite Element Analysis Method (FEM) ................................................................... 36
2.4.5. Limit Equilibrium and Finite Element Combination Method (LEM+FEM) ............... 36
CHAPTER 3: USE OF DeepEX – INTERFACE AND MAIN FUNCTIONS ............................................. 37

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3.1 Using DeepEX ...................................................................................................................... 38

3.2 DeepEX Interactive Interface ............................................................................................... 39
3.3 Design Sections in DeepEX .................................................................................................. 40
3.4 Construction Stages in DeepEX ........................................................................................... 42
3.5 DeepEX Tree View ............................................................................................................... 43
3.6 Unit Systems in DeepEX ...................................................................................................... 44
3.7 DeepEX Steel and Rebar Sections Databases ...................................................................... 44
3.8 DeepEX Toolbar Functions................................................................................................... 45
3.9 Edit the Boring Location in the Model Area ........................................................................ 48
3.10 Edit Default Software Settings........................................................................................... 50
3.11 Voice Commands in DeepEX ............................................................................................. 51
3.12 Main Software Tabs ........................................................................................................... 54
3.12.1 DeepEX General Tab ............................................................................................... 54
3.12.2 DeepEX Analysis Tab ............................................................................................... 54
3.12.3 DeepEX Seismic Tab ................................................................................................ 55
3.12.4 DeepEX Slope Stability Tab ..................................................................................... 55
3.12.5 DeepEX Stability+ Tab ............................................................................................. 55
3.12.6 Design menu ........................................................................................................... 56
3.12.7 DeepEX Results Tab................................................................................................. 56
3.12.8 DeepEX Report tab ................................................................................................. 56
3.12.9 DeepEX View Tab .................................................................................................... 57
3.12.10 DeepEX Optimize Tab............................................................................................ 58
3.12.11 DeepEX Help Tab................................................................................................... 58
CHAPTER 4: USE OF DeepEX – GENERATING A MODEL ................................................................ 61
4.1 Model Generation Methods................................................................................................ 62
4.2 Use of the DeepEX Model Wizard ....................................................................................... 62
4.2.1 Opening the Wizard and Selecting a Unit System .................................................... 63
4.2.2 Defining the Analysis Method and the Water and Earth Pressure Methods ........... 63
4.2.3 Selecting a Project Type and Defining Model Dimensions and Support Sections.... 65
4.2.4 Defining Soil Properties and Stratigraphy................................................................. 68
4.2.5 Defining Wall Section Properties .............................................................................. 70
4.2.6 Defining Staging – Support Levels ............................................................................ 71

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4.2.7 Defining External Loads and Surcharge Modeling Method ...................................... 72

4.2.8 Defining Structural and Geotechnical Design Codes ................................................ 73
4.2.9 Reviewing the Generated Model .............................................................................. 73
4.3 Define General Project Information .................................................................................... 74
4.4 Define General Surface Elevation ........................................................................................ 74
4.5 Define Model Limits ............................................................................................................ 75
4.6 Edit Soil Properties .............................................................................................................. 76
4.7 Additional Soil Types Options.............................................................................................. 81
4.7.1 Soil Change Commands – Change Soil Properties through Stages........................... 82
4.7.2 Estimate Properties from SPT or CPT ....................................................................... 83
4.7.3 Statistical Soil Estimation with Reporting (Optional Module) .................................. 84
4.7.4 Additional Soil Test Data ........................................................................................... 88
4.8 Create/Edit Structural Sections and Materials .................................................................... 89
4.8.1 Data entry: Wall Types and General Wall Type Options ........................................... 90
4.8.2 Wall type: Soldier piles ............................................................................................. 96
4.8.3 Wall type: Sheet piles .............................................................................................103
4.8.4 Wall type: Secant - tangent piles ............................................................................106
4.8.5 Wall type: Diaphragm walls (slurry walls US) .........................................................112
4.8.6 Wall type: Soldier pile and tremied concrete walls ................................................116
4.8.7 Wall type: Custom...................................................................................................117
4.8.8 Wall type: Combined walls .....................................................................................119
4.8.9 Wall type: Box Sheet Pile walls ...............................................................................120
4.8.9 Data entry: Tieback sections...................................................................................121
4.8.10 Data entry: Helical anchor sections ......................................................................124
4.8.11 Data entry: Strut sections .....................................................................................126
4.8.12 Mechanical and Hydraulic Strut sections .............................................................129
4.8.13 Data entry: Slab sections and slab supports.........................................................136
4.8.14 Data entry: Bearing Plates ....................................................................................139
4.8.15 Data entry: Timber Waler Sections.......................................................................139
4.8.16 Data Entry: Steen, Concrete and Hydraulic Wale Sections...................................140
4.8.17 Define Wale Support Sections ..............................................................................144
4.8.18 Define Structural Materials ..................................................................................147

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4.9 Define Stratigraphy – Borings – CPT logs – SPT Tests ........................................................ 152
4.10 Custom Layers in DeepEX – Non-Horizontal Soil Layers .................................................. 155
4.11 Add/Delete Walls in DeepEX ........................................................................................... 158
4.12 Define Wall Properties .................................................................................................... 160
4.13 Use of Additional Wall Elements Option ......................................................................... 165
4.14 Surface Options in DeepEX .............................................................................................. 167
4. 15 Perform Excavations, Dewatering and Backfill Operations ............................................ 170
4.16 Manage Construction Stages........................................................................................... 172
4.17 Add/Delete/Remove Supports ........................................................................................ 174
4.17.1 Adding Supports In the Model Area .....................................................................174
4.17.2 Deleting a Support from the Model Area .............................................................178
4.17.3 Removing/Deactivating a Support in a Construction Stage .................................178
4.18 Add a Waler Beam on an Existing Support...................................................................... 179
4.19 Use a Passive Heelblock .................................................................................................. 185
4.20 Add/Edit Tiedowns on Slabs............................................................................................ 188
4.21 Add/Edit Foundation Piles ............................................................................................... 189
4.21.1 Data entry: Helical Pile Sections ...........................................................................191
4.21.2 Data entry: Non-Helical Pile Sections ...................................................................191
4.22 Add/Edit Steel Column Elements .................................................................................... 193
4.23 Add/Edit 2D External Loads............................................................................................. 194
4.24 3D External Loads - Buildings .......................................................................................... 197
4.25 3D External Loads - Footings ........................................................................................... 201
4.26 Train-Embankment Surcharges ....................................................................................... 203
4.27 Activating and Deactivating Loads in Stages ................................................................... 205
4.28 Define Elastic Load Options............................................................................................. 206
4.29 Load combinations .......................................................................................................... 207
4.30 Seismic Options in DeepEX .............................................................................................. 209
4.30.1 Defining Earthquake Accelerations.......................................................................210
4.30.2 Selecting a Seismic Pressures Method .................................................................212
4.30.3 Defining Seismic Pressures Depth and Water Behavior .......................................214
CHAPTER 5: DEFINE ANALYSIS SETTINGS AND DESIGN STANDARDS .......................................... 216
5.1 Analysis Methods .............................................................................................................. 217

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5.1.1 Select an Analysis Method in DeepEX ....................................................................217

5.1.2. Defining the Mesh Analysis Options (FEM Analysis) .............................................218
5.1.3 Defining Convergence Options (FEM Analysis).......................................................220
5.2 Define Excavation Side ...................................................................................................... 221
5.3 Option to Link Design Sections.......................................................................................... 222
5.4 Define a Design Approach/Geotechnical Design Standard ............................................... 223
5.4.1 Selecting a Load Combination of a Specific Standard ............................................224
5.4.2 Generating all Load Combinations of a Selected Standard ....................................224
5.5 Change Clay Behavior through Stages ............................................................................... 226
5.6 Select Water Pressures Method ........................................................................................ 227
5.7 Define Thrust Options (Earth Coefficients Ka and Kp) ...................................................... 228
5.7.1 Automatic Mode (Recommended Option) .............................................................228
5.7.2 User Mode – User-Defined Methods .....................................................................229
5.7.3 Manual Mode .........................................................................................................230
5.8 Use/Edit Wall Friction ........................................................................................................ 231
5.9 Driving Pressures Methods (LEM Analysis) ....................................................................... 232
5.9.1 Selecting a Driving Side Pressures Method ............................................................232
5.9.2 Defining Pressure Method Options ........................................................................233
5.9.8 Defining User Pressures ..........................................................................................236
5.9.9 Defining Minimum Pressures .................................................................................236
5.9.11 Driving Pressures Below Excavation .....................................................................239
5.10 Resist Pressures Methods (LEM Analysis) ....................................................................... 240
5.10.1 Select a Resist Pressures Method .........................................................................240
5.10.2 Adjust Impact Loads (Deadman and Stepped Walls) ...........................................242
5.11 Limit equilibrium methods for Cantilever Excavations ................................................... 243
5.12 Beam Analysis Methods (LEM Analysis) .......................................................................... 244
5.13 Advanced Analysis Settings – Tension Gaps and Arching Effects .................................... 246
5.14 Select Wall Embedment Safety Factors ........................................................................... 248
5.15 Basal Stability FS and Wall Displacements ...................................................................... 249
5.16 Surface Settlements Estimation ...................................................................................... 251
5.17 Building Damage Assessment Settings (Optional Module) ............................................. 252
5.18 Wall Axial Loads and Axial Pile Capacity Options ............................................................ 253

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5.18.1 Adding an Axial Load on a Wall (Vertical or Inclined) ...........................................253

5.18.2 Defining Axial Geotechnical Capacity Parameters ................................................255
5.19 Define Structural Codes - Steel and Concrete Structural Design .................................... 257
5.20 Steel Section Databases and General Settings ................................................................ 259
5.21 Wall and Tiebacks Safety Factors .................................................................................... 260
5.22 Automatic Wall Depth Optimization (LEM Analysis Only) .............................................. 260
CHAPTER 6: ANALYSIS RESULTS – MODEL OPTIMIZATION - REPORTS ........................................ 262
6.1 Results: Analysis and Checking Summary Table ................................................................ 263
6.1 Analysis and Checking Summary Table – All Design Sections....................................263
6.1.2 Analysis and Checking Summary Table – One Design Section ...............................264
6.2 Graphical Results on Model Area ...................................................................................... 265
6.2.1 Graphical Wall Results ............................................................................................267
6.2.2 Graphical Support Results ......................................................................................268
6.2.3 Reviewing Graphical Soil Pressures Diagrams ........................................................269
6.2.4 Graphical Surcharge and Seismic Pressures Diagrams ...........................................269
6.2.5 Reviewing Graphical Water Pressures Diagrams ....................................................270
6.2.6 Reviewing Graphical Net Pressures Diagram ..........................................................271
6.2.7 Editing Diagram Values (Min-Max, Envelopes) .......................................................272
6.2.8 Reviewing Results Tables and Graphs .....................................................................273
6.2.9 Reviewing The Wall Embedment Results ...............................................................274
6.3 Partial Wall Results and Equations .................................................................................... 275
6.4 Partial Support Results and Equations .............................................................................. 276
6.5 Model Automatic Optimization Tools ............................................................................... 277
6.5.1 Defining Redesign Options .....................................................................................277
6.5.2 Automatic Optimization of a Design Section ..........................................................278
6.5.3 Automatic Optimization of Support Locations .......................................................280
6.5.4 Automatic Optimization of a Single Support (Structural) .......................................280
6.5.5 Automatic Optimization of a Single Support (Structural) .......................................281
6.5.6 Automatic Optimization of a Single Ground Anchor Fixed Length (Geotechnical) 281
6.6 Stage Calculations and Warnings ...................................................................................... 281
6.7 Report Options (Printed Reports)...................................................................................... 282
6.7.1 Selecting Report Design Sections and Construction Stages ...................................282

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6.7.2 Selecting the Report Sections and Defining the Sections Order ............................283
6.7.3 Defining Graphs and Sketches Layout Options .......................................................284
6.7.6 Previewing and Exporting a Report ........................................................................284
CHAPTER 7: SLOPE STABILITY ANALYSIS AND SOIL NAILING ....................................................... 285
7.1 Slope Stability Methods in DeepEX ................................................................................... 286
7.2 Define Circular Failure Surface .......................................................................................... 288
7.2.1: Select to use circular slope surfaces ......................................................................288
7.3 User-Specified Failure Surface ........................................................................................... 290
7.4 Automatic Failure Surface Search ..................................................................................... 291
Figure 7.4.1: Select to use the automatic failure surface search option .........................291
Figure 7.4.2: Automatic slope search limits ....................................................................291
7.5 Slope Stability Options Dialog ........................................................................................... 292
7.6 Add and Edit Soil Nails ....................................................................................................... 301
7.7 Review Slope Stability and Soil Nail Results ...................................................................... 304
CHAPTER 8: ADDITIONAL (OPTIONAL) MODULES AND FEATURES ............................................ 309
8.1 Project Cost Estimation (Cost Estimation Module) ........................................................... 310
8.2 3D Model in DeepEX (3D Frame Analysis Module) ........................................................... 319
8.3 Export drawings in DXF (DXF Module) .............................................................................. 343
8.4 Gravity walls in DeepEX (Gravity walls module)................................................................ 352
8.5 Pile supported abutment module ..................................................................................... 355
8.6 Wall Perimeter Designer ................................................................................................... 358
8.7 HoloDeepEX – Holographic 3D DeepEX Model .................................................................. 360
Figure 8.7.1: Options to export or view a holographic model.........................................360
Figure 8.7.2: Mouse and keyboard functions in HoloDeepEX .........................................361
Figure 8.7.3: Review a holographic model in HoloDeepEX – Struts and building ...........361
Figure 8.7.4: Review tieback configurations and building foundations in HoloDeepEX .362
Figure 8.7.5: HoloDeepEX lobby – select to open a project ............................................362
Figure 8.7.6: Controller functions in HoloDeepEX ...........................................................363
Figure 8.7.7: Stage navigation in HoloDeepEX.................................................................363
Figure 8.7.8: HoloDeepEX model viewed with augmented reality glasses .....................364
8.8 Define Building Damage Assessment Options .................................................................. 365
8.9 Review Building Damage Assessment Results .................................................................. 367

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO DeepEX

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1.1 About DeepEX (Deep Excavation Engineering Program)

DeepEX is a user-friendly robust software program that evaluates and aids the design of deep
excavations. The design of deep excavations can be a very complicated matter. The designer has
to content with many unknowns and factors that influence the behavior of the excavation.
Typically, there are two systems in excavations that must be designed: A) the Earth Retention
System that contains the earth i.e. the support wall (sheet pile, diaphragm wall, etc.), and b) the
Support System (i.e. the internal or external bracing such as rakers, struts, or tiebacks) that
supports the earth retention system.

Performing detailed calculations for both systems can be a very time-consuming process,
especially when parameters must be changed. In addition, many current software programs do
not offer an integrated platform of structural and geotechnical analyses required to design deep
excavations. As a result, the designer is forced to use numerous software programs to analyze the
excavation and the structural system separately. Apart from finite element analyses, there are
very few theoretical solutions for calculating lateral soil pressures from complex surface profiles.
Furthermore, the designer must save under different filenames the different stages of the same
excavation. As a result, the whole process can become unnecessarily complicated and time
consuming. DeepEX addresses most of these issues and provides an integrated structural and
geotechnical platform for designing deep excavations.

The current version of DeepEX offers both traditional methods of analyses and discrete soil
spring solutions. Finite Element Analysis Method is available as an additional module in DeepEX
software. While it is generally accepted that traditional methods of analysis have obvious
limitations in predicting real behavior accurately, they are important for framing the problem and
providing a back-check for more rigorous finite element methods. Soil spring solutions can give a
better approximation to real wall behavior. The beauty of DeepEX is that it can perform both
traditional and spring analyses so efficiently that it leaves the designer with ample time to
perform more time-consuming finite element analysis.

1.2 Software Compatibility & Installation

DeepEX is compatible with Windows (OS) XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 10. A minimum of 380 Mb must be
available on your hard disk.

1.3 Support & Technical Assistance

Support and technical assistance for DeepEX is offered through our web sites at:
www.deepexcavation.com and www.deepex.com

Please send us any question at: [email protected]

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1.4 DeepEX training and examples

You can find extensive examples and videos in our official websites (www.deepexcavation.com
and www.deepex.com).

For examples please visit:

www.deepex.com/training/examples
www.deepexcavation.com/en/examples-2015
For training videos, please visit:
www.deepex.com/training/training_videos
Projects designed with DeepEX:
DeepEX is used as a main deep excavation design tool by many engineers and companies
worldwide. As a result, a lot of projects (more than 10000 projects worldwide) have been
designed with our software program (Southeastern Asia, North America, Australia, Europe etc.).
All the projects that are designed with DeepEX met the requirements of the relevant DOTs.
DeepEX is used by major companies in US (i.e. Hayward Baker, Langan, CH2M, Skanska, Mountain
Pacific, Arup, Schnabel etc.).
You can find details of some of our projects and clients in our websites, using the following links:
https://www.deepex.com/projects/projects_with_deepex
http://www.deepexcavation.com/en/deep-excavation-library
Software training/online presentations:
We can always arrange a free online presentation (up to one hour), where we can present the
main features and capabilities of our software. Extensive training (online or on spot) can be
arranged upon request. The cost of the full training course can be defined according to your
needs. To arrange a presentation and for additional information, please contact:
[email protected]

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1.5 End User License Agreement

"TERMS OF USE / LICENSE AGREEMENT"

This legal document is an agreement between you (the end user) and Deep Excavation. BY
CONTINUING WITH/OPENING/DOWNLOADING THIS SOFTWARE PROGRAM, YOU ARE AGREEING
TO BECOME BOUND BY THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT, WHICH INCLUDES THE SOFTWARE
LICENSE, SOFTWARE DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY, AND HARDWARE LIMITED WARRANTY
"collectively the "Agreement".

This agreement constitutes the complete agreement between you and Deep Excavation. IF YOU
DO NOT AGREE TO THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT, DO NOT CONTINUE WITH THIS SOFTWARE
PROGRAM. Promptly return or delete the software program (cd and jewel case) and other items
that are part of this product to Deep Excavation, for a complete refund if a purchasing fee was
charged.

DEEP EXCAVATION ENGINEERING PROGRAM,"SOFTWARE LICENSE", APPLICABLE TO ALL

VERSIONS

THE LICENCE APPLIES TO PURCHASHED AND FREE OF PURCHASE VERSIONS OF THE DEEP
EXCAVATION SOFTWARE.

LICENSE. In consideration of payment of the LICENSE fee, which is a part of the price you paid for
this product, Deep Excavation, as Licensor grants to you, the LICENSEE, a nonexclusive right to
use and display this copy of Deep Excavation Engineering Program, Software (hereinafter referred
to as "SOFTWARE" on a single COMPUTER (i.e., with a single CPU) at a single location. Any
"networking", namely operating this program on a "network" is strictly forbidden. You as a
Licensee are strictly forbidden to operate, utilize, transfer, distribute, connect, network, link to,
attach, or operate in any manner this software on the internet, worldwide web, via email, any
website, networking, any multimedia device, electronic or otherwise or any form of electronic
media whatsoever. This includes but is not limited to the written materials, results, output, or
resulting answers and/or printed matter without the prior written consent of Deep Excavation.
Deep Excavation reserves all rights not expressly granted to LICENSEE.

SOFTWARE OWNERSHIP. As the LICENSEE, you own the magnetic or other physical media on
which the SOFTWARE is originally or subsequently recorded or fixed, however, Deep Excavation
retains title and ownership of the SOFTWARE recorded on the original disk copy(ies) and any
subsequent copies of the SOFTWARE, regardless of the form or media in or on which the original
and other copies may exist. This License is not a sale of the original SOFTWARE or any copy
thereof.

COPY AND/OR MODIFY RESTRICTIONS. All Licensed Products are copyrighted and may not be
further copied, without the prior written approval of Deep Excavation except that You may make
one copy for backup purposes provided You reproduce and include the complete copyright
notice, disclaimer, etc., on the backup copy. Any unauthorized copying is in violation of this

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Agreement and also a violation of the United States Copyright law. You may not use, transfer,
modify, copy of otherwise reproduce the License Product, or any part of it, except as expressly
permitted in this End User License Agreement.

USE RESTRICTIONS. As the LICENSEE, you may physically transfer the SOFTWARE from one
computer to another provided that the SOFTWARE is used on only one computer at a time. You
may not electronically transfer the SOFTWARE from one computer to another over a network.
You may not distribute copies of the SOFTWARE or accompanying written materials to others. You
may not operate, utilize, transfer, distribute, connect, network, link to, attach, or operate in any
manner this software on the internet, worldwide web, via email, any website, networking, any
multimedia device, electronic or otherwise or any form of electronic media whatsoever. You may
not modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or create derivative works
based on the SOFTWARE. In addition, you may not modify, adapt, translate, or create derivative
works based on the written materials, results, output, or resulting answers and/or printed matter
without the prior written consent of Deep Excavation.

RESTRICTIONS AGAINST TRANSFER. This SOFTWARE is licensed only to you, the LICENSEE, and
may not be transferred to anyone without the prior written consent of DEEP EXCAVATION. Any
authorized transferee of the SOFTWARE shall be bound by the terms and conditions of this
Agreement. In no event may you transfer, assign, copy, rent, lease, sell, or dispose of the
SOFTWARE in any manner on a temporary or permanent basis except as expressly provided
herein.

TERM. This End User License Agreement is effective from the date of purchase by You or granting
to you of the Licensed Product and shall remain in force until terminated. You may terminate this
End User License Agreement at any time by destroying the Licensed Product together with any
backup copy in any form made by You or received by You. In addition, your right to use the
Licensed Product will terminate if You fail to comply with any of the terms or conditions of this
End User License Agreement. Upon such termination You shall destroy the copies of the Licensed
Product in your possession.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY AND LIMITED WARRANTY

THE SOFTWARE AND ACCOMPANYING WRITTEN MATERIALS (INCLUDING RESTRICTIONS FOR USE)
IF ANY, ARE PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. FURTHER, DEEP EXCAVATION
DOES NOT WARRANT, GUARANTEE, OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS REGARDING THE USE, OR
THE RESULTS OF THIS USE, OF THE SOFTWARE OR WRITTEN MATERIALS IN TERMS OF
CORRECTNESS, ACCURACY, RELIABILITY, CURRENTNESS, OR OTHERWISE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO
THE RESULTS AND PERFORMANCE OF THE SOFTWARE IS ASSUMED BY YOU

. Deep Excavation warrants to the original LICENSEE (a) the disk(s) on which the SOFTWARE is
recorded to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for
a period of sixty (60) days from the date of delivery as evidenced by a copy of the receipt. In
addition, Deep Excavation hereby limits the duration of any implied warranty(ies) on the disk or
such hardware to the respective period stated above.

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Deep Excavation's entire liability and your exclusive remedy as to the disk(s) or hardware shall be,
at Deep Excavation's option, either (1) return of the purchase price or (2) replacement of the disk
or hardware that does not meet Deep Excavation's Limited Warranty, and which is returned to
Deep Excavation with a copy of the receipt. If failure of the disk or hardware has resulted from
accident, abuse or misapplication, Deep Excavation shall have no responsibility to replace the disk
or hardware or refund the purchase price. Any replacement disk or hardware will be warranted
for the remainder of the original warranty period or thirty (30) days, whichever is longer.

THE ABOVE ARE THE ONLY WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OR MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE THAT ARE MADE BY DEEP EXCAVATION ON THIS PRODUCT. NO ORAL OR
WRITTEN INFORMATION OR ADVICE GIVEN BY DEEP EXCAVATION, ITS DEALERS, DISTRIBUTORS,
AGENTS, OR EMPLOYEES SHALL CREATE A WARRANTY OR IN ANY WAY INCREASE THE SCOPE OF
THIS WARRANTY, AND YOU MAY NOT RELY ON ANY SUCH INFORMATION OR ADVICE.

NEITHER DEEP EXCAVATION NOR ANYONE ELSE WHO HAS BEEN INVOLVED IN THE CREATION,
PRODUCTION, OR DELIVERY OF THIS PRODUCT SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT,
CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS
PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTION, LOSS OF BUSINESS INFORMATION, AND THE LIKE) ARISING
OUT OF THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE SUCH PRODUCT EVEN IF DEEP EXCAVATION HAS BEEN
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN ALL CASES A LICENCED PROFESSIONAL
ENGINEER SHALL APPROVE AND STAMP ANY RESULTS BY D.E.E.P. AND THAT ENGINEER IS
ULTIMATELY RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENCES OR MISUSE OF THE SOFTWARE.

This Disclaimer of Warranty and Limited Warranty is governed by the laws of the State of New
York. Should you have any questions regarding this agreement please email:

Deep Excavation,

[email protected]

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1.6 What is new!

The latest version of DeepEX comes with many exciting new features that include:

i. Improved speech recognition commands and interactions.

ii. New analysis methods for NYCT DEP
iii. Timber struts, rakers, and walls.
iv. Improvements on multiple stepped walls
v. New wizard options for multiple stepped walls
vi. Improvements and additions for exporting project plan to DXF
vii. View boreholes and geotechnical investigation data in 3D and virtual reality
viii. Updated concrete codes: ACI 2019
ix. Updated AASHTO LRFD 8th edition
x. Additional FEM capabilities, partial consolidation, speed, mesh generation
xi. Model base soil pressures in base slabs, and soil-structure interaction in FEM.
xii. Tiedowns for base slabs
xiii. Include pile rows for base slabs (independent from walls)
xiv. Include pile rows for slope stability (independent from walls)
xv. Type to create a model: Instead of using your voice, you can now type a logical phrase and
you can create a model. For example, you can type “create a 30 foot deep excavation with
struts” and DeepEX will automatically generate a model for you.
xvi. Google maps project image
xvii. Scaled picture images for project image.

New Module: Soil estimation reporting and statistical analysis

1.7 DeepEX Basic Version and Additional Optional Modules

DeepEX software is customizable. We can use the basic version or choose to include any of the
available additional optional modules. These modules, when activated, can assist us with
different analysis options.

DeepEX Basic Version

With DeepEX basic version, we can design in the same software file unlimited number of 2D
design sections. In each design section we can use different soil layers, different wall types,
different support systems, different external loads (load from buildings, footings, traffic, train
etc.). So basically, we can use the design sections to analyze all the different project walls.

DeepEX basic version implements the classical Limit Equilibrium analysis method and the Non-
Linear analysis (Beam on elastoplastic foundations methods). It includes a big variety of structural
and geotechnical design standards and extensive databases of steel sections (pipes, H piles,
rectangular hollow sections, sheet piles, channel sections, rebars) used globally.

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Cost Estimation Module

Cost options are available with the Cost Estimations additional optional module within DeepEX.
We can either calculate project costs with the general calculation of the project, or we can choose
to estimate cost without wall analysis. The cost module does not produce exact costs. It is used
to produce rough project cost estimations (Installation costs - labor and equipment, material
costs). Additional information for this module is included in section 4.9.

This module can be activated and used, as an independent module within DeepEX, where the
activation of other modules, as a package is not required. It can be uniquely activated regardless
of the other modules.

3D Frame Analysis Module

The 3D frame analysis additional, optional module enables us to design excavations supported by
walers, struts and tiebacks. The 3D definitions consist of an external project perimeter and an
excavation perimeter. A wall perimeter is typically assigned to the excavation perimeter, with the
possibility of assigning a different wall section (relating to a 2D design section) on each wall
segment (between nodes). Based on the analysis results, DeepEX will pick up the load from each
design section and Figure out reactions and stress checks on walers, struts and ground anchors.
Additional information for this module is included in section 4.10.

The use of this module requires the purchase and activation of the cost estimation module as
well.

Export 3D Holograms Module

The Export 3D Holograms additional optional module enables the possibility to create
holographic representations of deep excavations. Any 3D model created by the 3D frame analysis
module of DeepEX can be exported and viewed on the desktop (Windows 10 version is required),
or through Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality glasses, with the use of the HoloDeepEX viewer
application. The holograms can be used for the impressing presentation of the designed project
to the client, as well as to review possible construction issues (interaction between tiebacks and
nearby building foundations, relative position between walls and utilities etc.).

The use of this module requires the purchase and activation of the cost estimation and 3D Frame
Analysis modules as well.

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Export Drawings to DXF Module

The Export drawings to DXF additional, optional module enables us to export all 2D sections to
DXF, saving a respected amount of time and effort to create the project sketches. The software
exports all design sections, wall sections and top site view to DXF, which is a file format that can
be opened and edited with any CAD software. Additional information for this module is included
in section 4.11.

The Export Drawings to DXF is an independent module that can be included in any software
version. If the 3D Frame Analysis module is also activated, then the Export Drawings to DXF
module can also assist to the export of the plan and side views of the model to DXF.

Gravity Walls Module

The Gravity Walls additional, optional module enables us to design gravity retaining walls. The
module can calculate the wall stresses and factors in sliding, overturning and bearing conditions.
Gravity walls can be of any shape and dimensions. Additional information for this module is
included in section 4.12.

This module can be activated and used, as an independent module within DeepEX.

Pile Supported Abutments Module

The Pile supported abutments additional, optional module enables us to design abutments of any
shape, supported by a pile group. The software analyzes both the wall and the piles, performing
structural and geotechnical design. Additional information for this module is included in section
4.13.

This module can be activated and used, as an independent module within DeepEX.

Building Damage Assessment Module

The building damage assessment additional optional module can be used for the damage
assessment analysis. With this module activated, the software will calculate the settlement and
displacement below the wall because of the nearby excavation, and it will also perform the
damage assessment, calculating and presenting strains, displacements and damage categories of
all building walls, in each construction stage. Additional information for this module is included
in section 4.7.

This module can be activated and used, as an independent module within DeepEX, though it
works better when a 3D model is created with the use of the DeepEX 3D frame analysis module.

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Finite Element Analysis Module

The Finite Element Analysis additional optional module enables us to perform the Finite Element
(FEM) analysis in any model created in DeepEX. FEM analysis can consider all construction stage
effects and enables us to model full soil-structure interaction. Soil is modelled with a series of
triangular nodes. DeepEX does all the stiffness calculations and helps us to estimate FEM analysis
parameters.

This module can be activated and used, as an independent module within DeepEX.

Soil Estimation Reporting and Statistical Analysis

The Soil Estimation – Statistical Analysis additional optional module enables us to review a full
statistical analysis of all available software properties estimation methods, when we enter an SPT
test record to the software. This feature is very important, since it can assist us to have a total
overview of the soil property estimation procedure and create a better judgement while selecting
the soil properties estimation methods. This module can be activated and used, as an
independent module within DeepEX. Additional information for this module is included in section
4.157.

As mentioned above, DeepEX basic version can be enhanced with additional optional modules.
Most of these modules can be activated and used independently. There are only two limitations:

A. DeeEX 3D Frame analysis module requires the purchase and activation of the Cost Estimation
module additionally.

B. DeepEX Export 3D holograms module requires the purchase and activation of the 3D frame
analysis and the cost estimation modules additionally.

We can implement any module to the end user’s version upon request and purchase. Additional
modules purchase and activation can be done either with the original software purchase, or in a
future date.

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1.8 DeepEX Licensing and Annual Maintenance

The purchase of a DeepEX license is a one-time procedure. Users can purchase the required
amount of software licenses, and these licenses can never expire. New additional licenses or new
modules can be purchased additionally and activated in future dates if required.

Each standard DeepEX license can be installed and activated in a specific device. These activated
licenses can be transferred to new devices with the use of our online activation center, following
a specific procedure (see section 1.9).

A USB key can be purchased additionally. In that case, we can ship a USB key that can be used as
a license key, unlocking the software in each device DeepEX is installed, giving mobility to the end
user to work with the software in different devices. Only one key can be acquired for each
purchased license.

A network USB key can be purchased additionally. This USB key can be installed on the server,
allowing the cotemporary use of DeepEX in a number of devices, equal to the number of
purchased licenses. For the purchase of a network key, one of the following minimum
requirements should be met:

A. Purchase of at least one DeepEX license along with the Cost Estimation, 3D Frame Analysis,
HoloDeepEX, Gravity walls and Export Drawings to DXF modules.

B. Purchase of at least two DeepEX Basic Licenses, or DeepEX with fewer modules than mentioned
in case A above.

1.9 Activating and Transferring a DeepEX single Standard License

DeepEX full version can be installed using the full version link, which is provided upon software
purchase. The number of single activated licenses of each user equals to the number of purchased
licenses.

To activate a single software license in a certain device where the software is installed for the first
time, the following procedure should be followed:

A. Open the software full version with the CAPS LOCKED (or the SHIFT key pressed). This action
causes the activation panel to appear).

B. The activation panel includes a SITE and a MID code. These codes are unique for each device
and they are based on certain device parameters (BIOS, Hardware, Hard Disc etc.). Please send
us these SITE and MID codes.

C. We will produce and e-mail back an Activation code that can used in the panel to activate the
license.

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Figure 1.9.1: Activating a single license

We can always transfer the license to other devices using our online activation center. Along with
the original activation code, we provide to all software users a unique username and password.

In order to transfer a license, the next procedure should be followed:

1. Open the software in the device where the software is activated with the CAPS locked (the
activation window should appear).

2. Select to remove license. We will need to import your current activation code and press
Continue. We have to accept to remove the license.

Figure 1.9.2: Select to remove the license

3. The software will produce a Removal Code. We have to SAVE this code, as it is required in order
to move the license to another device or reactivate the software in case of a PC disc format.

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Figure 1.9.3: Save current removal code

4. Install the software to the new device where we wish to transfer the license or reinstall the
software in case of a PC disc format.

5. Open the software in the new device with the CAPS locked (the activation window should
appear).

6. Visit our online activation center at:

http://activate.deepexcavation.com:8000/admin.aspx

7. Login with the provided Username and Password.

Figure 1.9.4: Login to the activation center

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8. Select the option “Manage your licenses”.

Figure 1.9.5: Option to manage licenses

9. Locate the order, open order’s licenses (by pressing the “key” button), and select the refresh
button next to the license you wish to transfer. Enter the new SITE and MID codes and the
Removal code of the license you just removed.

Figure 1.9.6: Select to update a license

10. The software will produce a new activation code. Save this code and use it in the activation
panel to activate the new license.

Figure 1.9.7: Save new activation code

1.7.2 Activating the network license

Network license instructions are included in a separate manual.

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CHAPTER 2: INTRODUCTION TO DEEP EXCAVATIONS

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2.1 Deep Excavations Background

A deep excavation is typically defined as an excavation in soil or rock that is deeper than 15 ft (4.5
m). Deep excavations require careful design and planning especially when constructed in
congested urban areas. Selecting and designing an appropriate earth retaining and support
system can have significant impact on cost, time, and performance.

Figure 2.1.1: Diaphragm wall excavation supported by soil anchors.

Deep excavations involve two main systems a) The Retaining System that contains earth and water
from entering directly into the excavated site, and b) The Support System (or bracing system) that
contains the resist forces generated by soil, surcharges, and water. Cantilever excavations do not
require bracing.

The term "Retaining System" for a deep excavation refers to the structural system that retains soil
and water and prevents it from collapsing into the open cut. Many types of retaining systems
exist. The selection of the proper retaining system depends on a wide range of factors such as:
Economical, soil conditions, protection of adjacent structures, ease of construction,
environmental issues and so on. Typical retaining systems include soldier pile and lagging, sheet
piling, secant pile or tangent pile walls, soil mix walls, and diaphragm walls (also known as slurry
walls in the U.S.).

The role of support systems is to provide lateral bracing for retaining walls. Support systems can
be subdivided into external and internal depending on the load transfer mechanism. External
supports (namely tiebacks) work by transferring lateral excavation loads beyond the active zone
of soil movements (retained side). On the other hand, internal supports such as struts, rakers, or
floor slabs, transfer lateral loads within the excavation (across opposing walls or to other internal
structures). In all cases, support and retaining systems must work closely together to guarantee
a high level of performance.

More detailed descriptions of typical retaining and support systems are available in following
sections.

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2.2. Retaining systems for deep excavations

2.2.1. Soldier Pile and Lagging Walls

Figure 2.2.1: Soldier Pile & Timber Lagging Walls.

Soldier pile and lagging walls are some of the oldest forms of retaining systems used in deep
excavations. These walls have successfully been used since the late 18th century in metropolitan
cities like New York, Berlin, and London. The method is also commonly known as the "Berlin Wall"
when steel piles and timber lagging is used. Alternatively, caissons, circular pipes, or concrete
piles can also be used as soldier piles (but at an increased cost). Timber lagging is typically used
although reinforced concrete panels can also be utilized for permanent conditions. Soldier pile
and lagging walls are formed by:

1. Constructing soldier piles at regular intervals (6 ft to 12 ft, typically)

2. Excavating in small stages and installing lagging.

3. Backfilling and compacting the void space behind the lagging.

Moment resistance in soldier pile and lagging walls is provided solely by the soldier piles. Passive
soil resistance is obtained by embedding the soldier piles beneath the excavation grade. The
lagging bridges and retains soil across piles and transfers the lateral load to the soldier pile system.

Soldier pile and lagging walls are the most inexpensive systems compared to other retaining walls.
They are also very easy and fast to construct. The major disadvantages of soldier pile and lagging
systems are:

1. They are primarily limited to temporary construction.

2. Cannot be used in high water table conditions without extensive dewatering.

3. Poor backfilling and associated ground losses can result in significant surface settlements.

4. They are not as stiff as other retaining systems.

5. Because only the flange of a soldier pile is embedded beneath subgrade, it is very difficult to
control basal soil movements.

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2.2.2. Sheet Pile Walls

Figure 2.2.2: Sheet Pile Section.

Sheet pile walls are constructed by driving prefabricated sections into the ground. Soil conditions
may allow for the sections to be vibrated into ground instead of it being hammer driven. The full
wall is formed by connecting the joints of adjacent sheet pile sections in sequential installation.
Sheet pile walls provide structural resistance by utilizing the full section. Steel sheet piles are most
commonly used in deep excavations, although reinforced concrete sheet piles have also been
used successfully.

Steel sheet piling is the most common because of its several advantages compared to other
materials:

1. Provides high resistance to driving stresses.

2. Light weight

3. Can be reused on several projects.

4. Long service life above or below water with modest protection.

5. Easy to adapt the pile length by either welding or bolting

6. Joints are less apt to deform during driving.

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2.2.3. Secant Pile Walls

Figure 2.2.3: Typical Secant Pile Wall Section.

Secant pile walls are formed by constructing intersecting reinforced concrete piles. The piles are
reinforced with either steel rebar or with steel beams and are constructed by drilling under mud.
Primary piles are installed first with secondary piles constructed in between primary piles once
the latter gain sufficient strength. Pile overlap is typically in the order of 3 inches (8 cm). In a
tangent pile wall, there is no pile overlap as the piles are constructed flush to each other. The
main advantages of secant or tangent pile walls are:

1. Increased construction alignment flexibility.

2. Increased wall stiffness compared to sheet piles.

3. Can be installed in difficult ground (cobbles/boulders).

4. Less noisy construction.

The main disadvantages of secant pile walls are:

1. Verticality tolerances may be hard to achieve for deep piles.

2. Total waterproofing is very difficult to obtain in joints.

3. Increased cost compared to sheet pile walls.

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2.2.4. Soil Mix Walls

Various methods of soil mixing, such as mechanical, hydraulic, with and without air, and
combinations of both types have been used widely in Japan for about 20 years. Soil mixing has
been used for many temporary and permanent deep excavation projects including the Central
Artery project in Boston. Known methods include as Jet Grouting, Soil Mixing, Cement Deep
Mixing (CDM), Soil Mixed Wall (SMW), Geo-Jet, Deep Soil Mixing, (DSM), Hydra-Mech, Dry Jet
Mixing (DJM), and Lime Columns. Each of these methods aims at finding the most efficient and
economical method to mix cement (or in some cases fly ash or lime) with soil and transform soil
to become more like a soft rock.

Mechanical soil mixing is performed using single or multiple shafts of augers and mixing paddles.
The auger is slowly rotated into the ground, typically at 10-20 rpm, and advanced at 2 to 5 ft (0.5
to 1.5 m) per minute.

Cement slurry is pumped through the hollow stem of the shaft(s) feeding out at the tip of the
auger as the auger advances. Mixing paddles are arrayed along the shaft above the auger to
provide mixing and blending of the slurry and soil. Slurry lubricates the tool and assists in the
breaking up of the soil into smaller pieces. Spoils come to the surface since fluid volume is being
introduced into the ground. These spoils comprise cement slurry and soil particles with similar
cement content as what remains in the ground. After final depth is reached, the tools remain on
the bottom of the hole, rotating for about 0.5 to 2 minutes for complete mixing. At this point, the
tools are raised while continuing to pump slurry at a reduced rate. Withdrawal is typically at twice
the speed of penetration, 4 ft to 10 ft (1 m to 3m) per minute.

Steel beams are typically inserted in the fresh mix to provide reinforcement for structural reasons.
A continuous soil mix wall is constructed by overlapping adjacent soil mix elements. Soil mix
sections are constructed in an alternating sequence with primary elements being formed first and
secondary elements following once the first have gained sufficient strength.

The soil mix method can be very effective at providing very stiff and waterproof retaining systems.
However, it is rather limited to medium and large-scale projects because of its high mobilization
costs. Insufficient mix strength may result when mixing organic soils unless a high replacement
ratio is maintained. Other issues such as difficulties in maintaining consistent compressive
strengths throughout the section of a soil mix wall can also emerge.

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2.2.5. Diaphragm Walls (Slurry walls US)

Figure 2.2.4: Typical Diaphragm Wall Section.

The continuous diaphragm wall (also referred to as slurry wall) is a structure formed and cast in a
slurry trench (Xanthakos, 1994). The trench is initially supported by either Bentonite polymer-
based slurries. The term "diaphragm walls" refers to the final condition when the slurry is
replaced by tremied concrete that acts as a structural system either for temporary excavation
support or as part of the permanent structure. This construction sequence is illustrated in Figure
1. The term slurry wall is also applied to walls that are used as flow barriers (mainly in waste
containment), by providing a low permeability barrier to contaminant transport.

Slurry wall technology hinges on specialized equipment for excavating slurry trenches. The
simplest type of trenching equipment is the mechanical clamshell attached on a kelly bar.
Individual contractors have developed their own specialized trenching equipment like hydraulic
clamshells, fraise or hydromills (sample manufacturers: Icos, Bauer, Casagrande, Case
Foundation, Rodio etc.).

The first diaphragm walls were tested in 1948 and the first full scale slurry wall was built by Icos
in Italy in 1950 (Puller, 1996) with Bentonite slurry support as a cut-off wall. Icos constructed the
first structural slurry wall in the late 1950s for the Milan Metro (Puller, 1996). Slurry walls were
introduced in the US in the mid-1960s by European contractors. The first application in the US
was in New York City [1962] for a 7m diameter by 24m deep shaft (Tamaro, 1990), that was
followed by the Bank of California in San Francisco (Clough and Buchignani, 1980), the CNA
building in Chicago (Cunningham and Fernandez, 1972), and the World Trade Center in New York
(Kapp, 1969, Saxena, 1974). The majority of diaphragm wall projects in the US are in six cities
Boston, Chicago, Washington DC, San Francisco and New York.

Diaphragm walls are extensively used in the Central Artery/Tunnel project (CA/T) in Boston,
Massachusetts. Work in the CA/T involves many cut and cover tunnels constructed under the
existing artery. Some of the deepest T-slurry walls, extending 120' below the surface have been
constructed for the Central Artery (Lambrechts et al., 1998).

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2.3 Support systems for deep excavations

2.3.1. Tiebacks/Rock Anchors

Figure 2.3.1: General installation sequence of tiebacks.

Anchored walls have become popular in braced excavations because of a) the substantial progress
in the technology and availability of high-capacity anchor systems, and b) the absence of interior
obstructions that permit uninterrupted earth moving and thus improve the construction
conditions of the underground portion of a building (Xanthakos, 1994). In some projects, tiebacks
have been used in combination with rakers and soil berms and/or corner braces (Gnaedinger et
al., 1975). Tieback anchors comprise a barrel anchorage located either in a bearing layer which is
tensioned at the front face of the wall. The part of the anchor that transfers the force to the
surrounding soil is frequently called the "fixed length", while the "free length" transmits forces
from the fixed length through the anchor head to the slurry wall.

To minimize wall movement and ground settlement, tieback anchors are designed to achieve the
highest stiffness possible within economic considerations. In urban cities like Boston, Chicago,
New York, and Washington where land is precious such deep excavations are more common.
Tieback capacity depends on the vertical and horizontal spacing of anchors and on surcharge
conditions. Prestress levels typically range from 40 to 250 kips when the grouted portion of
tiebacks is within soil, higher loads are used when the ties are installed in bedrock. Typical tieback
spacing ranges from 7ft to 13ft in the vertical, and from 5ft to 15ft in the horizontal direction.
Tieback capacity is reduced if the spacing is too close due to interference between adjacent
grouted zones.

Often the tiebacks are used only for temporary excavation support, while the basement floors
provide permanent lateral earth support. In such projects the tiebacks are detensioned when the
basement floors have gained sufficient strength. The basement floors should be designed to resist
permanent lateral earth pressures, since stress transfer from the tiebacks to the floor system will
take place when the ties are detensioned. This stress transfer has reportedly caused long-term
cracking of many the basement floors.

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Tieback installation follows a predetermined sequence as to minimize soil movements and speed
the excavation construction. The excavation is carried a couple of feet below the tieback to enable
access for the drill rig. Further excavation occurs only after prestressing and proof-testing of the
anchors. The process can be repeated for additional levels of tiebacks. Building codes require that
all tiebacks are proof-tested to an excess percentage of their final lock-off load, which usually
ranges from 120 to 150% of the final lock-off load. Regroutable tiebacks are most commonly used
because their capacity can be increased by regrouting (to meet test requirements) without having
to drill a new anchor hole.

A tieback is made by first drilling a hole with an auger and then placing a bar (tendon) in the hole,
concrete is then poured in the hole and the connection with wall is made. Different types of
augers are used to drill the tieback holes. The choice of the drilling method depends on the
soil/rock conditions on the site.

Drilling should be done carefully since inadequate procedures can cause significant soil losses.
The byproduct of drilling is removed by flushing the hole with air, water, or slurry. Air is most
efficient in dry ground, but it requires special attention because it can become entrapped during
drilling, building up zones of high pressure in the soil that can eject material for several feet and
at high speeds (potentially injuring workers). Water flushing is best used in sticky clayey soil, and
it also cleans the sides of the hole by its sweeping action, providing a stronger bond at the grout-
anchor interface. Bentonite slurry flushing works the best since it keeps particles in suspension,
while the sealing action keeps the hole from collapsing.

Significant soil losses through the tiebacks cause significant settlements even if the retaining walls
do not move towards the excavation. In granular soils the drilled hole must be cased to avoid
collapse.

Some tieback creep can be expected especially if the ties are very short and the fixed length of
the tie is within soft ground. For stability reasons, the fixed anchor should be located beyond the
active zone of movements. As a result, tieback anchors may not be an option at sites congested
where there are adjacent underground utilities or when adjacent owners do not grant permission
to drill them under their properties.

Special attention should be given to the waterproofing details at the anchor heads and at the
tieback holes. Significant leakage can be caused by inadequate water stopping details at these
locations.

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2.3.2. Cross-lot/Internal Bracing

Figure 2.3.2: A cross-lot project.

Cross-lot or internal bracing transfers the lateral earth (and water pressures) between opposing
walls through compressive struts. Rakers resting on a foundation mat or rock offer another
internal bracing alternative. Typically, the struts are either pipe or I- beam sections and are usually
preloaded to provide a very stiff system. Installation of the bracing struts is done by excavating
soil locally around the strut and only continuing the excavation once preloading is complete. The
struts typically rest on a series of wale beams that distribute the strut load to the diaphragm wall.

Pre-loading ensures a rigid contact between interacting members and is accomplished by

inserting a hydraulic jack as each side of an individual pipe strut between the wale beam and a
special jacking plate welded to the strut. The strut load can either be measured with strain gages
or can be estimated using equations of elasticity by measuring the increased separation between
the wale and the strut.

In some earlier projects the struts were not preloaded, and as a result when the excavation
progressed deeper the soil and the wall movements were large (C1). Thus, it has become standard
practice to preload struts to minimize wall movements. Cross-lot bracing makes sense in narrow
excavations (60ft to 120ft) when tieback installation is not feasible. The struts can bend
excessively under their own weight if the excavation spacing is too large. In addition, special
provisions must be taken to account for thermal expansion and contraction of the struts.

The typical strut spacing is in the range of 15ft, both in the vertical and the horizontal direction.
This is larger than the typical spacing when tiebacks are used, because the pre-loading levels are
much higher. A clear benefit of using struts is that there are no tieback openings in the slurry wall,
thus eliminating one source of leakage.

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2.3.3. Top/Down Construction

Figure 2.3.3: Typical Top/Down Sequence.

Top/down or up/down construction methods are another method for constructing deep
excavations. In this case the basement floors are constructed as the excavation progresses. The
top/down method has been used for deep excavation projects where tieback installation was not
feasible and soil movements had to be minimized. The general top/down construction sequence
is shown in the figure above. The Post Office Square Garage in Boston (7-levels deep) is one of
the best-instrumented and documented top/down projects in the US (Whittle, et al., Whitman et
al., 1991).

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The sequence construction begins with retaining wall installation and then load-bearing elements
that will carry the future super-structure. The basement columns (typically steel beams) are
constructed before any excavation takes place and rest on the load bearing elements. These load
bearing elements are typically concrete barrettes constructed under slurry (or caissons). Then the
top floor slab is constructed with at least on construction (glory) hole left open to allow removal
of spoil material.

The excavation starting at the glory hole begins once the top floor has gained sufficient strength.
Soil under the top basement floor is excavated around the basement columns to slightly lower
than the first basement floor elevation to allow for the installation of the forms for the first level
basement slab. Glory holes are left open within each newly formed basement floor slab and the
procedure is repeated. Each floor rests on the basement columns that were constructed earlier.

2.4.Deep Excavations – Analysis Methods

DeepEX software includes the classical Limit Equilibrium method (LEM), a Non-Linear analysis
method (NL) where the software uses elastoplastic Winkler springs, and the 2D Finite Element
Analysis method (FEM – available as an additional optional module). Figure 2.4.1 presents the
analysis methods as presented in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

The combination methods (LEM+NL and LEM+FEM) can be also selected. In this case, the
software will use the limit equilibrium method to calculate the wall embedment FS, and then will
perform the non-linear or finite element analysis to calculate all other results.

Figure 2.4.1: Analysis options

The selection of an analysis method is an important decision. In general, LEM method is the
classical method accepted by any authority, and it is a quite easy method to verify. On the other
hand, it ignores the soil-structure interaction and all stages are independent. The wall deflections
are estimated independently for each stage, something that might lead to unrealistic results,
especially in cases of excavations with many support levels. The advanced methods like NL or FEM
might lead to very realistic results, but we have to be careful during the definition of the soil
properties.

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2.4.1. Conventional Limit Equilibrium Analysis Method (LEM)

Limit equilibrium is an analysis method, where limit state conditions are assumed. For excavations
and earth retaining structures this usually means that earth pressures are assumed on both the
retained and excavated sides. These pressures may represent a failure state such as active or
passive lateral earth pressures, or an assumed redistribution such as diagrams by Peck or FHWA.

In Limit Equilibrium Analysis, the retaining wall is analyzed to provide moment and force
equilibrium, when possible. Support reactions are also calculated, typically by using the tributary
area method.

2.4.2. Non-Linear (Beam on elastoplastic foundations) Method (NL)

DeepEX implements a non-linear finite element code for the analysis of the mechanical behavior
of flexible earth retaining structures during all the intermediate steps of an open excavation. The
non-linear engine is empowered by many unique advanced features. DeepEX offers the following
elastoplastic soil models:
a) Linear elastic - perfectly plastic
b) Hyperbolic soil model
c) Subgrade reaction soil model
d) Small Strain Hardening model

On the reloading part, every soil model has a linear reloading elasticity parameter. Such a
parameter should typically range from 2 to 4 times the loading elasticity value (with average 3).
In excavations, the reloading elasticity parameter typically describes the remaining soil below the
excavation while the loading elasticity is mostly applicable for soil on the retained side. In a non-
linear analysis the excavation models reduced to a plane problem, in which a unit wide slice of
the wall is analyzed, as outlined in the Figure below. Therefore, DeepEX is not suitable to model
excavation geometries in which three-dimensional effects may play an important role. In the
modelling of the soil-wall interaction, the very simple yet popular Winkler approach is adopted.
The retaining wall is modelled by means of beam elements with transversal bending stiffness EI;
the soil is modelled by means of a double array of independent elastoplastic springs; at each wall
grid point, two opposite springs converge at most.

2.4.3. Limit Equilibrium and Non-Linear Analysis Combination Method (LEM+NL)

In this case, DeepEX will first use the LEM method in order to calculate the wall embedment safety
factors, and then will run the analysis with the soil springs in order to calculate all other
parameters (support reactions, soil pressures, wall moment and shear stresses, wall
displacements etc.). This analysis option should be selected when we wish to run Non-Linear
analysis on deadman wall systems, since it considers the impact load that is developed on the
active side of the front wall, as a result of the passive pressures that are developed on the
deadman.

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2.4.4. Finite Element Analysis Method (FEM)

The Finite Element Method (FEM) is a numerical method for solving engineering problems. Over
the last years, it is adopted by several structural and geotechnical design software programs and
it offers an advanced solution to complex soil retaining problems. FEM uses mesh generation
techniques for dividing a complex problem into smaller parts, called finite elements, that can be
described by simpler equations. Usually, a Finite Element software is used in order to assemble
the finite elements and simulate the entire model.

DeepEX software uses our Finite Element Analysis method engine, called DeepFEM. This option
is implemented in all software versions since 2019, and it can be activated as an additional,
optional module within the software, allowing us to model full soil-structure interaction
considering all construction stage effects. The following options are available:

• Elastic and inelastic soil constitutive laws with associative or non-associative Failure
Criteria (e.g. Mohr-Coulomb, Drucker-Prager, Soil Hardening).
• Drained and Undrained modelling of clays with excess pore pressures.
• External loads: Prescribed, surface Strip and Linear Surcharges, 3D Loads (Buildings,
Footings, Area Loads).
• Automated, high-quality mesh generation with quadratic triangular finite elements.
• Inelastic zero thickness interface elements automatically generated on soil to structural
element interfaces.
• Steady state seepage analysis where the user can define boundary conditions, drains and
wells.
• Expert decision making on the estimation of the FEM analysis parameters.
• Calculation of Surface Settlements.
• Deadman Wall Systems.
• Design of Anchored walls and Braced excavations.
• Analysis of Multiple walls.

2.4.5. Limit Equilibrium and Finite Element Combination Method (LEM+FEM)

In this case, DeepEX will first use the LEM method in order to calculate the wall embedment safety
factors, and then will run the analysis with the finite elements in order to calculate all other
parameters (support reactions, soil pressures, wall moment and shear stresses, wall
displacements etc.).

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CHAPTER 3: USE OF DeepEX – INTERFACE AND MAIN FUNCTIONS

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3.1 Using DeepEX

DeepEX is a user-friendly software program and includes powerful features and versatile options.
In DeepEX we can work with many design sections of an excavation. In a sense, a design section
is a design scenario. Each design section can be independent or can be linked to a parent model.
This way, multiple conditions can be examined simultaneously. The main interface is shown in
Figure 2.2. The general philosophy in creating an excavation model in DeepEX is:

1) Specify the global coordinates.

2) Specify the soil types and properties.

3) Specify the layers.

4) Create a generalized water table.

5) Specify the retaining wall system (soldier pile, sheet pile, secant pile, tangent pile, and
diaphragm wall options).

6) Create a database of support members (tiebacks, struts, or concrete slabs).

7) Add a stage and draw in new supports.

8) Modify the stage elevations.

9) Specify load cases or design approach combinations.

10) Analyze the project.

11) Perform slope stability analysis.

The general tabs that appear on the top of the program have the following functions.

1. General: This tab includes general information about the project, model limits and all the
model options. Here we can define borings, number of walls used, surface and water elevations,
add or delete stages and modify/edit options for supports and external loads.

2. Analysis: In this tab we can define the type of the analysis performed (limit equilibrium,
elastoplastic or both).

3. Seismic: In this tab we can include and edit seismic effects.

4. Slope: This is an extra module which includes options for slope stability.

5. Stability +: In this tab we can control options for the calculation of wall embedment safety
factors, surface settlements and Clough basal stability method.

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6. Design: In this tab we can control the structural design codes and other options for calculating
the design capacities of walls and supports.

7. Results: In this tab we can select to present results directly to the screen after the analysis is
performed.

8. Report: In this tab we can select options for generating output reports or viewing calculation
progress files.

9. View: In this tab we can modify various view options or generate a top view of the model.

10. Optimize: This tab provides options for optimizing walls and supports after an analysis is
completed.

11. Help: This tab provides links to help and technical manuals.

3.2 DeepEX Interactive Interface

DeepEX offers a user-friendly, interactive interface. We can easily create several design sections
and construction stages, access the interactive model area to edit fast all items and create the
model graphically and select to run the analysis.

Figure 3.2.1: General DeepEX interface

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3.3 Design Sections in DeepEX

In DeepEX we can work with many design sections of an excavation. In a sense, a design section
is a design scenario. Each design section can be independent or can be linked to a parent model.
This way, multiple conditions can be examined simultaneously.

We can use the design sections in order to simulate different excavation locations and walls. Each
design section can open in a different tab above the model area. We can access these tabs and
modify independently the soil properties and stratigraphy, the wall sections, the support types,
the construction stages, the surface and water elevation in each stage, the analysis options etc.

Figure 3.3.1: DeepEX design section tabs

By right-clicking on the design sections area, we can select to rename, add or delete design
sections. When we press to “Add Section”, an independent blank section with no construction
stages is added. When we press to “Add as a new section”, an independent copy of the design
section you have currently selected (right-clicked on) is added. This new design section includes
all the construction stages, supports and surface /water elevations of the original section, and we
can later modify it independently.

Figure 3.3.2: Manage design sections list

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When we press to “Add new linked section”, a linked copy of the design section you have currently
selected (right-clicked on) is added. This new design section includes all the construction stages,
supports and surface /water elevations of the “parent” section. Any model modification to one
of the linked sections, will pass to all of them automatically. The only “unlinked” options in this
case are the analysis method and the different analysis options (design codes, soil pressure
methods etc.). The linked sections option can be used so we can assign and run different analysis
cases on the same model fast and compare the results.

Even independent design sections can be linked and unlinked any time from the Analysis tab of
DeepEX. By pressing the “Link option” button, we can choose to link the selected design section
to any other. There we can find the option to link or not link the analysis type.

Figure 3.3.3: Link design section options in DeepEX

The design sections list can also be managed by the Edit Design Sections toolbar, as presented in
section 3.8.

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3.4 Construction Stages in DeepEX

Deep excavations always require staged construction, since even the wall construction can affect
the performance. In DeepEX, we should always start from an initial stage with at-rest conditions
(no excavation), and then start adding design stages and perform design steps, trying to simulate
the construction procedure (perform excavation up to the first support level, install support level,
perform a further excavation or a backfill operation etc.). Additional stages can be added after
the final stage, and these can be used to check different soil pressure methods, seismic conditions
and more.

When we select to add a stage in DeepEX, a new stage is added as an exact copy of the last stage.
This new stage can be modified independently. There are options to rename, delete or insert a
stage right before of a selected one. We can add, delete or insert stages either from the options
in the General tab, or by right-clicking on a stage right below the model area.

Figure 3.4.1: Manage stages in general tab and below the model area
DeepEX will run the analysis and present the results of each construction stage in tables and
graphically on the model area. This way, we can identify the most critical stage, which is not
always the last one. All structural items will be designed from the most critical stage results. The
recognition of the most critical stage allows us to decide to take actions (edit support locations,
structural sections etc.) to achieve the most efficient model optimization.

Figure 3.4.2: Staged excavation in DeepEX

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3.5 DeepEX Tree View

DeepEX offers features that include multiple design sections and a tree-style project view. The
tree view enables the user to quickly access vital project data, as well as visualize crucial project
settings. The next table briefly describes the functionality of the Wall list, Design Section List, and
Tree View items.

Table 3.5.1: DeepEX Tree view items

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3.6 Unit Systems in DeepEX

DeepEX incorporates different design systems that can easily be selected from a drop-down on
the bottom left side of the screen, right below the design sections list area. We can select among
English units, SI units and more. The unit change can happen any time. All item sizes and
magnitudes are adjusted to the new unit systems and the values are accurately converted.

Figure 3.6.1: Select a unit system in DeepEX

3.7 DeepEX Steel and Rebar Sections Databases

DeepEX implements extensive international databases of steel sections (H beams, Channels,

Pipes, Rectangular Hollow, Sheets etc.) and rebar sizes. We can easily load the databases used in
the local area, by selecting the option from the Design tab (Figure 3.7.1). Later, when choosing
any steel section or rebar size from the software database to apply to a wall or support section,
all the section properties are loaded automatically.

Figure 3.7.1: Select a steel sections/rebars database

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3.8 DeepEX Toolbar Functions

DeepEX software includes a number of toolbars, allowing us to quickly perform several actions
on the model area. The following section provides a detailed list of all toolbar functions.

Start button, located on the top left side of the main screen, allows us to create a new project,
access and open saved projects, save the current project and more. Figure 3.8.1 presents the start
button toolbar options.

Figure 3.8.1: Start button toolbar options

Tool Description

Create a new project.

Open an existing project.

Saves the project.

Save a project with different name or destination folder, or in an older

version.

List of recently created or modified projects.

Exits the program.

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A toolbox is available on the left screen side under the design sections list. The available tools are
described in the table below:

Tool Description
Turn the snap on or off (when snap is on, the points in the model area are
rounded to .5)
Zoom in
Zoom out
Zoom to 1 to 1 horizontal to vertical scale
Zoom Original (all)
Show/Hide axis
Show/Hide dimensions
Show/Hide point coordinates on the model area
Show/Hide tieback dimensions
Show/Hide soil properties
Show/Hide assumptions table
Show/Hide Ka and Kp values on model
Show boring on a specific x coordinate on model
Show boring on model
Show boring in table
Show/Hide SPT values (if SPT record is assigned)
Show/Hide CPT tip resistance on model (CPT log must be applied)
Sleeve friction (CPT log must be applied)
Standard soil description for CPT tests according to Robertson (CPT log
must be applied)
Water pressure (CPT log must be applied)
Open the Soil Estimation Statistical Analysis options – see section 4.7.3
Select tool – drag and move objects
Erase an item. Select an item on the model to erase.
Splits a surface line and inserts a point.
Performs an excavation (click on screen to define the excavation limits).
Performs a backfill operation (click on screen to define the backfill limits).
Perform an integrity check of the model

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On the top left side of the program, right under the design section list appears a toolbar that helps
the user deal with the design sections (Figure 3.8.2). The icons are presented and described in
the table below:

Tool Description

Edit the name of the selected design section

Generate a new view of the current design section

Add a new design section

Delete design section

Move design section up on the list

Move design section down on the list

Add a new design section (empty – including only stage 0)

Figure 3.8.2: Design section toolbars

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On the bottom right corner of the program there is a toolbar that helps the user perform
calculations and control viewing options.

Figure 3.8.3: View and calculate tools

The following calculation buttons are available:

Tool Description

Calculate the current design section on view

Calculate all design sections included in the Design Sections list

NOTE: The “All design sections” button needs to be selected when we wish to perform Building
Damage Assessment calculations.

3.9 Edit the Boring Location in the Model Area

In the Edit View-Draw toolbar (see section 3.8), we can locate an option to define the boring
position in the model area. The boring location selection is important, because it affects the view
on the model area, as well as the appearance of the screenshots in printed reports and the
exported sketches (Export to DXF additional optional module). Figure 3.9.1 presents the available
options:

Figure 3.9.1: Define boring position in the model area options

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The option Exact x places the boring location on the exact x-coordinate defined in the Edit Boring
dialog (Figure 32.9.2).

Figure 3.9.2: Exact X boring location in model area

The option Side view table, places the boring information on the left side of the model itself.

Figure 3.9.3: Side view boring location in model area

The option Side and Table creates an additional table with Soil Layers information. The position
of the table in the model area can be later defined in the View tab of DeepEX.

Figure 3.9.4: Side and Table boring location in model area

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3.10 Edit Default Software Settings

Changing the default software parameters is an important procedure and we have to be very
careful. By setting a project as default, we actually select the project that will be loaded each time
we open the software. It is highly recommended that any settings changes should be applied in a
clear model with no modifications to soil properties, stratigraphies, construction stages etc., else
these settings will be saved as default as well.

In order to change the software default settings, we have to start the software as administrator,
open the Settings dialog from the Help tab and press to set the current project as default.

The following procedure should be followed:

A. With the software closed, we should take the mouse over the software icon in the PC Desktop
and RIGHT-CLICK on it.

B. From the menu that appears, we have to select to run the software as administrator.

Figure 3.10.1: Option to open DeepEX as administrator

C. In the Help tab of DeepEX, we can select the option Settings. In the dialog that appears, we can
define all initial software settings (unit system, language, company and engineer name, font sizes,
structural codes and more). We can also change the company logo, which appears in the DeepEX
reports. The logo should be in jpg format, with dimensions 300x52 pixels. After changing all
parameters, we can select to set the project as default.

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Figure 3.10.2: Change settings and set project as default

3.11 Voice Commands in DeepEX

Since the version DeepEX 2018, we have implemented a series of voice commands that can be
used any time, either to create the full model automatically, or to handle the different project
options and procedures (performing excavations and backfill operations, install supports, edit soil
and support properties and more).

In order to use the Voice commands in DeepEX, the PC has to have a microphone (headset or
built-in microphone) and the Windows version should be Windows 8 or more recent. DeepEX
uses the Microsoft Windows recognition system with the English (US) language package.

Before using a voice command, we have to make sure that the microphone button at the middle-
left side of the main software screen (right below the design sections area) is selected. Initially,
we have to give the command “Hey DeepEX”, in order to activate the feature. For the next few
seconds, the software will use the voice recognition system, it will listen and execute the various
voice commands. The background noise during these few seconds might be an issue, causing the
software to be confused or capture commands, so a use of a headset and the use of this feature
in a relatively quiet environment is recommended. After a few seconds the system will lock, so
we might need to give again the order “Hey DeepEX”.

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By giving the order “What can I say”, DeepEX will present a window with examples of voice
commands that can be used.

Figure 3.11.1: Review available voice commands in DeepEX

Here follows a list of several commands that could be given to DeepEX in order to edit a model.
Lengths, depths, positions, support types etc. in the following orders can be changed by the user.

Excavate right 10 feet

Excavate left 10 feet
Excavate center 10 feet
Excavate left to elevation minus 12 feet
excavate (excavates 10 feet or 3.5m)
Backfill right 10 feet
Backfill left 10 feet
Backfill center 10 feet
Backfill left to elevation minus 12 feet
In the install commands you can change tieback with, strut, raker, fixed, fixed support:
Install tieback at 10 feet depth
Install tieback at Elevation minus 10 feet
Install tieback (adds a tieback 2 feet or 0.5m above excavation)
Install tieback at 10 feet depth at left wall
Install tieback at 10 feet depth at right wall
Add second wall (adds wall on right)
Add right wall
Set left slope 20 degrees down
Set left slope 20 degrees up

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Set right slope 20 degrees down

Set center slope 20 degrees up
Set water at left at minus 10 (feet) (elevation)
Set water right at minus 10 feet (elevation)
Set water center at minus 10 feet (elevation)
Set water right depth 10 (feet)
Set water right at Elevation minus 10 (feet)
Edit left second tieback
Edit second tieback
Edit wall, edit left wall, edit right wall, edit second wall
Edit second strut
Edit first tieback on left wall
Edit first fixed on left wall
Edit soils, edit soil types, edit soil
Edit layer, edit layers, edit borehole, edit borings
Add wall surcharge
Add wall surcharge on left wall (add a surcharge load directly on the left wall)
Add wall surcharge on right wall (add a surcharge load directly on the right wall)
Add surcharge

The following voice commands can be used to generate full models (all construction stages are
generated automatically):
Create a 30 ft deep excavation with struts
Create a 50 ft deep excavation with 4 levels of tiebacks

EXAMPLE

Say “Hey DeepEX” and then “Create a 50 ft excavation with 4 levels of struts”.

Figure 3.11.2: Model with voice commands – 50 ft excavation with struts

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3.12 Main Software Tabs

On the top of the model area, we can locate the main software tabs. These tabs include all the
required tools in order to:

A. Generate a model in the model area

B. Define the analysis assumptions (Select analysis method, design standards and more)

C. Include seismic loads

D. Perform slope stability analysis

E. Review the Analysis results on the model area

F. Optimize the model

G. Review calculation warnings and export analysis reports

3.12.1 DeepEX General Tab

Figure 3.12.1.1: The General Menu of DeepEX Software.

The DeepEX General tab includes all the required tools, in order to define the general project
parameters, as well as, to create any deep excavation model in the model area. All functions and
tools included in the General Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 4.

3.12.2 DeepEX Analysis Tab

Figure 3.12.2.1: The Analysis tab menu.

The DeepEX Analysis tab includes all the required tools, in order to select the analysis method to
be applied to the model, as well as define all basic analysis settings. All functions and tools
included in the Analysis Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 5.

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3.12.3 DeepEX Seismic Tab

Figure 3.12.3.1: The Seismic tab menu.

The DeepEX Seismic tab includes all the required tools, in order to define the seismic
accelerations and select the method for the calculation of seismic pressures on the model. All
functions and tools included in the Seismic Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 4.

3.12.4 DeepEX Slope Stability Tab

Figure 3.12.4.1: The Slope tab menu.

The DeepEX Slope tab includes all the required tools, in order to select the slope stability analysis
method to be applied to the model, as well as, define the slope surface search options. From this
tab we can add soil nails to the model, and select to run the slope stability analysis. All functions
and tools included in the Slope Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 7.

3.12.5 DeepEX Stability+ Tab

Figure 3.12.5.1: The Stability+ tab menu.

The DeepEX Stability+ tab includes all the required tools, in order to define options regarding the
calculation of wall embedment safety factors, basal stability and surface settlements. In addition,
here we can define the Building Damage Assessment settings (see section 8), and the
geotechnical pile capacity calculation settings. All functions and tools included in the Stability+
Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 5.

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3.12.6 Design menu

Figure 3.12.6.1: The Design tab menu.

The DeepEX Design tab includes all the required tools, in order to define the design standards and
options for the structural design of all project structural members. In addition, here we can select
the structural member section databases, to be displayed within all structural section dialogs
(walls and supports), depending on the section type. All functions and tools included in the Design
Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 5.

3.12.7 DeepEX Results Tab

Figure 3.12.7.1: The Results tab menu.

The DeepEX Results tab includes all the required tools, in order to review the calculation results.
The results can be either viewed on the model or presented in diagrams or tables. All functions
and tools included in the Results Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 6.

3.12.8 DeepEX Report tab

Figure 3.12.8.1: The Reports tab menu.

The DeepEX Report tab includes all the required tools, in order to review the calculation analysis
and checking summary tables, as well as, all calculation warnings. In this tab we can access and
use the Report Manager, which allows us to customize and export the analysis reports. All
functions and tools included in the Report Tab of DeepEX are presented in Section 6.

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3.12.9 DeepEX View Tab

Figure 3.12.9.1: The View tab menu.

- Transparency: By pressing the button we can make the model transparent when
results are shown. The transparency can be adjusted from the vertical bar.

- Result legend: By pressing the button we can turn the result legend on or off.

- Moment shear diagrams: By pressing the button we can change the view settings of
the moment and shear diagrams.

- Pressure diagrams: By pressing the button we can change the view settings of the
pressure diagrams.

- Display results: By pressing the button we can change the display settings of the
results.

- User axis position: By pressing the button we can change the axis position
(elevation).

- Grid/snap: By pressing the button we can change the view options of the snap and
axis or show a grid.

- Zoom and Dimension: These icons allow us to zoom in/out in the model area, as well as,
display or hide the model dimensions.

- Top view: By pressing the button , a top plan view of the site is created. This allows
the user to see the position of the design section and the location of 3D objects (i.e.
buildings, footing loads etc.).

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3.12.10 DeepEX Optimize Tab

Figure 3.12.10.1: The Optimize tab menu.

The DeepEX Optimize tab includes all the required tools, in order to perform structural and
geotechnical optimization of all structural members on the model area. In order to use the
automatic optimization tools, the model must be analyzed. In this tab we can also define the cost
estimation parameters (see section 8). All functions and tools included in the Optimize Tab of
DeepEX are presented in Section 6.

3.12.11 DeepEX Help Tab

Figure 3.12.11.1: The Help tab menu.

- What is new: By pressing the button , we can check what is new in the latest version of
DeepEX.

- Open help manual: By pressing the button , we can open the DeepEX help file.

Figure 3.12.11.2: The DeepEX help file.

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- Manuals: By pressing the buttons and , the folders that contain the
technical documentation of DeepEX are displayed.

- Other: By pressing the buttons and , the user can read the terms of use of
DeepEX and learn about the current version.

- Settings: by pressing the button , the Default Settings dialog appears.

 General tab: In this tab we can define the default units, company and engineer name
and the Auto save directory. The option save files in default directory saves temporary
progress files in the folder where the .deep file is saved.
 Fonts/View tab: In this tab we can define the fonts and some other viewing options.
The available view options are:

• Show axes.
• Show soil information.
• Show soil layers on left side of model.
• Show Ka and Kp values next to the wall.
• Show assumptions table on model.
Furthermore, here we can define some view options regarding the result presentation.

Figure 3.12.11.3: Settings – General and Font Tabs.

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 Soil/Properties tab: Here we can define the steel member standard (European or US)
and whether to read the members metric database or not.
 Design tab: Here we can define the default code used for structural design of steel and
concrete members.
 Non-linear tab: Here we can define the default folder location for Non-linear analysis
engine. It is recommended that the initial settings are not modified.

Figure 3.12.11.4: Settings – Properties, Design and Non-Linear Tabs.

IMPORTANT: In order to change the software default settings, you have to start the software as
administrator, open the Settings dialog from the Help tab and press to set the current project as
default – see section 3.10.

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CHAPTER 4: USE OF DeepEX – GENERATING A MODEL

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4.1 Model Generation Methods

DeepEX is a user-friendly, powerful shoring design software. In each software file we can generate
unlimited number of design sections simulating different project positions or analysis settings,
and in each design section we can create and analyze all model construction stages.

The models can be created either manually, or with the use of the DeepEX model wizard. The
following sections present in detail all the options and dialogs that can be accessed from the
General tab of the software.

4.2 Use of the DeepEX Model Wizard

The DeepEX wizard includes a series of tabs, where we can define quickly all project parameters.
The wizard creates automatically all construction stages, using the selected support types. We
can later access all structural members and change all positions and structural sections as desired.

With the DeepEX Model Wizard we can do the following:

A. Define the Unit System to be used within the generated model

B. Define the Analysis Method and set the method calculation options.

C. Select a project type and define the general model options (wall depths, excavation depth,
support types, water table and more).

D. Define the project soil types and general stratigraphy.

E. Define the wall type and wall section to be used within the model.

F. Define the position (elevation) of each bracing level in the model.

G. Apply an external load and define the method for the calculation of the load surcharges on the
walls.

H. Define the Structural Codes and Design Standards to be applied on the generated model.

The following paragraphs present all the available options within the DeepEX Model Wizard.

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4.2.1 Opening the Wizard and Selecting a Unit System

The Wizard can be accessed from the General tab of DeepEX. Initially, we have to define the unit
system that should be used in the generation of the specific model.

Figure 4.2.1.1: Open model wizard and select unit system

4.2.2 Defining the Analysis Method and the Water and Earth Pressure Methods

Figure 4.2.2.1: Select analysis method in DeepEX model wizard

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The first option in this tab is the selection of the analysis method to be applied to the generated
model. The following options are available:
A. Limit Equilibrium Method (LEM) – See section 2.4.1
B. Non-Linear Analysis Method (NL) – See section 2.4.2
C. Combination Method (LEM+NL) – See section 2.4.3
D. Finite Element Analysis Method (FEM) – See section 2.4.4 – The additional FEM Module
is required.

In case of limit-equilibrium analysis, we can define the earth pressures calculation method,
choosing among FHWA pressures, Custom Trapezoidal pressures, Peck 1969 pressure, adaptive
pressures from active or Hexc, apparent between Ka and Ko, and German EAB from active or
increased pressures. DeepEX will use Active pressures for the initial conditions and for cantilever
excavations or excavations with a single support, and change to the selected pressure diagram to
all construction stages with multiple support levels.

We can also choose from the following list of options:

• Blum’s method (pins at supports, and at zero net load)

• Tributary area method
• Simplified span analysis (FHWA approach)
• Simplified span analysis with negative moments
• California Trenching Manual 2011 (option negative moments)
• California Trenching Manual 2011 (20% negative moments)
• Hydrostatic water pressures (groundwater analysis)
• One dimensional flow around wall (groundwater analysis options)
• Two-dimensional flow net analysis (groundwater analysis options)

For one wall and limit equilibrium analysis only, user can choose to optimize the wall embedment
length, defining the wall embedment safety factor and the increment length for wall embedment
search.
In this tab, DeepEX also provides an option to include arching effects in non-linear analysis.

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4.2.3 Selecting a Project Type and Defining Model Dimensions and Support Sections

In the tab Dimensions of the DeepEX model wizard we can initially select the project type. Then,
based on the selected project type we can define the project dimensions (wall depths, wall
spacing, final excavation elevation, water table etc.) and the support spacing and structural
section.

Figure 4.2.3.1: Select project type and model dimensions in DeepEX model wizard

Figure 4.2.3.2: Define support sections in DeepEX model wizard

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Here user can define the project type from the available list:

ICON DESCRIPTION (PROJECT TYPE)

One wall with tieback supports

Two walls with tieback supports

Dead man wall with tierod

Bin type wall

Two walls braced with internal struts

One wall with raker supports

One wall with raker supports and a heel block

Concrete slabs top/down construction

Rectangular shaft with walers

Struts and 3D frame

Circular shaft (half-space modelled with uniform loading conditions

all around shaft)

Sequential underpinning wall

Stepped excavation

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Depending on the project type that we select, in this tab we can also define the structural section,
spacing and installation angle of the supports that we will use. The following parameters should
be defined:

• Final Excavation depth

• Wall length
• Excavation width (especially in case of opposite walls)
• Top of wall elevation
• Ground water elevation
• Length of second wall (in case of Dead man wall design)
• Initial ground elevation (in case of Dead man wall design)
• Depth to tierod (in case of Dead man wall design)
• Support horizontal spacing
• Support structural section
• Inclination angle (in case of tiebacks or rakers)
• Option to bring rakers to the base point (in case of rakers)
• Free length of tiebacks (user selected, Italian m=0.2H, Canadian m=0.15H)
• Option to estimate structural properties for tiebacks (tiebacks only)
• Option to include Prestress force for tiebacks (tiebacks only)
• Option to use hydraulic or mechanical struts (struts and rakers only)
• Change in temperature (struts and rakers only)
• Temperature load correction factor (struts and rakers only)

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4.2.4 Defining Soil Properties and Stratigraphy

In the tab Soil layers of the DeepEX model wizard we can edit the list of soils that should be
used in the project (see section 4.6), as well as define the model boreholes (see section 4.9).

Figure 5.2.4.1: Edit soil properties in DeepEX model wizard

Figure 5.2.4.2: Define stratigraphy (boreholes) in DeepEX model wizard

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This tab offers three main options:

1. Edit soil types: By pressing this button, the Soil properties dialog appears. All
properties that are available in this dialog are described in Paragraph 4.5.
2. Edit borings: By pressing this button, the Edit Borings dialog appears, where we can
define the stratigraphy. All properties that are available in this dialog are described
in Paragraph 4.6.
3. Define soils from text description. This option loads the dialog presented in Figure
4.2.4.3, where user can describe soil conditions and define SPT values and DeepEX
can estimate and create a soil profile.

Figure 4.2.4.3: Soils defined from text description.

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4.2.5 Defining Wall Section Properties

In the tab Wall type of the DeepEX model wizard we can define the wall structural section. We
can select from the list of available wall sections and, if needed, we can press the button “Edit
section data”, and in the dialog that appears we can add and modify new sections, populating
the project file’s wall sections database (see section 3.7).

Figure 4.2.5.1: Edit soil properties in DeepEX model wizard

The options of the “Edit Wall Properties” dialog are presented in paragraph .

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4.2.6 Defining Staging – Support Levels

In the tab Stages of the DeepEX model wizard, the “Tabulated Elevations” option is selected by
default. we can define the depth from the surface of each support row and how much the
software should excavate below this elevation in the stage prior than the support installation.
DeepEX will generate all construction staging, including the excavation stages prior the support
installation.

Figure 4.2.6.1: Define support levels in DeepEX model wizard – tabulated elevations
Alternitelely, we can select the option “Automatic Elevations”. In that case, we can either choose
the number of supports below cantilever excavation, or define a standard vertical spacing
between the supports. The depth of the first support from the ground surface and how much the
software should excavate below each support installation level should also be defined.

Figure 4.2.6.2: Define support levels in DeepEX model wizard – automatic elevations
If we wish to create a cantilever excavation model (no supports), then we can simply select the
“Cantilever” option in this tab.

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4.2.7 Defining External Loads and Surcharge Modeling Method

In the tab Surcharges of the DeepEX model wizard, we can select to add an external load on the
model. The load type (two step wall surcharge, triangular surcharge on wall, soil strip surcharge)
should be selected and the load position and magnitude should be defined. There is also an
option to omit the load. We can always add loads graphically on the model area in any
construction stage after the model is generated.

Figure 4.2.7.1: Define external load and surcharge modeling method

We can choose between a two-step wall surcharge, a triangular surcharge, a strip load or not
using a wall surcharge at all. Here, we can also define the surcharge modelling options for LEM
analysis:

Elasticity Equations

Two way distribution angle

One way distribution angle

One-way distribution angle from soil friction

Elasticity to vertical stress x Ka (or Ko)

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CIRIA Special Pub 95-1993

WMATA Design Manual

4.2.8 Defining Structural and Geotechnical Design Codes

In the tab Codes of the DeepEX model wizard we can select the structural and geotechnical
codes, desired to be applied on the specific model.

Figure 4.2.8.1: Define structural and geotechnical design codes

4.2.9 Reviewing the Generated Model

After defining all model parameters, DeepEX generates the model with all the stages. We can
view the generated model on the model area, review the staging, run the analysis and optimize
the structural sections and support locations.

Figure 4.2.9.1: Model with all construction stages generated by the model wizard

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4.3 Define General Project Information

By pressing the button in the General tab of DeepEX, we can change the project, file, company
and engineer name, and we can add a project description. This information is presented in the
software printed reports.

Figure 4.3.1: Project information dialog.

4.4 Define General Surface Elevation

By pressing the button in the General tab of DeepEX, we can change the model elevation
by entering a new top of wall elevation.

Figure 4.4.1: Model Elevation dialog.

The user can choose the objects to be affected by the change in elevation. These are:

The design section coordinates

The soil layers elevation (of current borehole)
All the soil layer elevations of all boreholes
Elevations of all stages
Elevations of walls
Elevations of all supports
Elevations of all surcharges
Elevations of all footings and buildings
The top of the wall is used as point of reference for the change of elevations.

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4.5 Define Model Limits

By pressing the button , we can change the Design Section name, the used Stratigraphy or
Boring and the Model Limits to create a nice view of the model.

Figure 4.5.1: Model Dimension – Limits dialog.

This dialog includes the following options:

• The design section name.

• The model limits. Here we can define the top, bottom, left and right limits of the model.
These are absolute coordinates.
• Define the angle of the wall in-plane from y’-y axis (plan view i.e. from top).
• Define the excavation type (Long 2D excavation, Box-type excavation, Circular shaft,
Corner (enables out-of-plane for supports)).

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4.6 Edit Soil Properties

By pressing the button If the General tab, the Soil Types dialog appears. Here the user can
create as many soil types as needed and define their properties. First the user should select to
add a new soil type, or choose one from the list in order to modify its properties.

Figure 4.6.1: Add a new soil or select a soil to modify.

We can change the basic soil information such as soil name, preview color and soil type. The
available soil types are Sand, Clay, Silt, Gravel, Intermediate geomaterial and Rock. If the soil is
clay, a drained or undrained behavior of the clay can be defined at this point. All these details can
be modified in the area presented in Figure 4.6.2. Next, the user can modify the general soil
properties in the area marked in Figure 4.6.3. The basic properties are described in the table
below.

Symbol Description
γt Total unit weight of soil (used below the water table)
γdry Dry unit weight of soil (used above the water table)
c’ Effective soil cohesion
Su Undrained shear strength (used for clays when undrained modeling is selected).
In the non-linear analysis this is used as an upper limit strength
v Poisson’s ratio (used for loads calculated with theory of elasticity)
Φ’ Effective soil friction angle
Φcv’ Constant volume effective shearing soil friction angle used in the non-linear
analysis for clays
Φpeak’ Peak effective soil friction angle used in the non-linear analysis for clays
Kx Soil permeability at horizontal direction
Kz Soil permeability at vertical direction
KoNC Coefficient of at-rest lateral earth pressures for normally consolidated conditions
nOCR Exponent for calculating Ko with Ko=KoNC*[(OCR)^(nOCR)]

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If the user presses the Show Test Data button the dialog expands to the right. Here are available
tools for estimating main soil data properties from in-situ tests. Data for standard penetration
tests, cone penetrometer tests and pressuremeter tests are included (Figures 4.6.4 and 4.6.5).

Figure 4.6.4: Test Data.

Figure 4.6.5: SPT Estimator.

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In addition, next to the main data there is the symbol . This symbol opens a list of tools that can
help the user estimate the soil data values according to published literature. Depending on the
soil parameter, the software will either recommend specific values, or it will guide the user to
define some test data and open graphs according to scientific methods.

The tab B. Resistance is initially hidden. It appears when the user selects the User input procedure
at the Ka Kp main options dialog (which appears when the user selects the Thrust options choice
of the Analysis tab menu, see paragraph 5.9). In this tab, the user can define the initial active and
passive coefficients calculation method (Figure 4.6.6). Ka can be calculated by Rankine Equation,
or estimated from Graph Correlations (Figure 4.6.7). Kp can be defined either graphically, or by
the Rankine or Caquot equations. It is strongly recommended that all initial Ka and Kp values are
set to Rankine unless special conditions have to be modeled.

Figure 4.6.6: Ka and Kp calculation (when manual option is selected in thrust mode).

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Figure 4.6.7: Graph correlations.

Next, in the tab C we can define the soil elasticity behavior of each soil type (Figure 4.6.8). The
elasticity model can be linearly elastic – perfectly plastic, exponential, subgrade-modulus
behavior or HS small. There are some tools that can help the user estimate loading and reloading
elasticity as well as other parameters. In general, the reloading modulus for soils is taken as three
times (or greater) than the loading modulus.

Figure 4.6.8: Loading – reloading elasticity parameters.

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The following table presents the properties that are available in the C. Elastoplastic tab:
Symbol Description
Elastic-plastic soil Evc Virgin compression modulus of elasticity
behavior rEur Ratio of Reloading to loading elasticity modulus
(typical range 3 to 5)
Eload Loading elasticity modulus
exp Exponent
av Coefficient for vertical stress
Exponential soil
ah Coefficient for horizontal stress
behavior
Pref Reference pressure
rEur Ratio of Reloading to loading elasticity modulus
(typical range 3 to 5)
Subgrade-modulus Kvc Loading subgrade reaction modulus
soil behavior rKur Ration of reloading to loading subgrade reaction
modulus

Finally, if tiebacks or soil nails are going to be used in the model, the user has to define or estimate
the Ultimate Bond Resistance.

Figure 4.6.9: Ultimate Bond Resistance definition.

The following table presents the properties that are available in the D. Bond tab:

Symbol Description
qskin.u Ultimate bond resistance for tiebacks
ks Subgrade modulus for calculating the shear resistance (in slope stability
for soil nails)
qskin.u Ultimate bond resistance for soil nails
qskin.u Ultimate bond resistance for concrete type walls (geotechnical pile
capacity calculations).

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4.7 Additional Soil Types Options

By pressing the arrow under the soil types button in the General tab of DeepEX, the following
options are available:

These options allow us to change the soil properties through stages and define the soil property
estimation options from SPT tests and CPT logs. The following paragraphs present the available
options in detail.

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4.7.1 Soil Change Commands – Change Soil Properties through Stages

With the Soil Change Commands, can choose to change structural material and soil properties
during a specific stage. A change property command is valid for all subsequent stages, unless it is
superseded by another change command or another model change. Please use these options
with care.

Figure 4.7.1.1 : Change soil property dialog.

In the Change soil properties dialog, the following properties are available:

Describe material change

Select stage to make material change effective
Select soil property
Select soil to modify (pass the change to a soil type or a specific layer)
Initial property value
New property value
Choose wall side to apply change

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4.7.2 Estimate Properties from SPT or CPT

This option opens the “Options for estimating soil properties from SPT or CPT” dialog, where we
can select which soil options (and by which method) we want to be estimated if we assign an SPT
text or a CPT record to the model.

Figure 4.7.2.1: Options for estimating soil properties from SPT or CPT dialog.
The following options are available:

1. Soil Friction Estimation method. We can select from the following:

• Use the value defined to the soil type – not estimate
• SPT Estimate – Perko
• SPT Estimate – Triaxial Compression Friction
• SPT Estimate – Kullhawy-Chen 2007 (GEC 10)
• SPT Estimate – Peck
• SPT Estimate – Pilot Database Benchmark
2. Option to estimate Ko-OCR from SPT
3. Option to estimate loading Elasticity Modulus
4. Option to estimate undrained shear strength for clays
5. Choose method for using CPT (if a CPT Log is defined). We can select from the following:
• Use interpreted profile (boring and soils)
• Use exact CPT record (all points)

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4.7.3 Statistical Soil Estimation with Reporting (Optional Module)

In DeepEX, we can select to add SPT records to any stratigraphy, by defining the depth and SPT
values. DeepEX can implement a series of methods that can estimate different soil properties
based on the provided SPT values.

Figure 4.7.3.1: Procedure to add and assign an SPT Record to a borehole

The “Statistical Soil Estimation” module allows us to perform a statistical analysis of estimated
soil parameters with a series of different methods. The statistical analysis allows us to estimate
soil property variability with depth or in the project plan. Then, one can select the desired design
values based on the desired confidence level.

The Statistical Estimation dialog can be accessed either from the toolbar at the bottom left side
of the software database, or from the drop-down menu under the Soil Types option in the General
tab of the software.

In the dialog that appears we can create several Estimation sets and define the estimation
methods and properties for each set. Next, we can select to perform the Statistical Analysis and
review the generated reports.

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Figure 4.7.3.2: Open the Statistical Analysis options and Edit Sets

Figure 4.7.3.3: General Soil Properties Estimation (Unit Weights, Friction Angle – Undrained
Shear Strength)

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Figure 4.7.3.4: Modulus of Elasticity Estimation

Figure 4.7.3.5: Bond Resistance (Skin Friction) Estimation

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Figure 4.7.3.6: Lateral Pile Analysis Soil Parameters Estimation

Figure 4.7.3.7: Overconsolidation Ratio Estimation

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Figure 4.7.3.8: Review Statistical Analysis Results

4.7.4 Additional Soil Test Data

In the drop-down menu below the Soil Types option in the General Tab of the software, we can
select to add geotechnical tests (Atterberg Limits, OCR tests etc), that are also considered in the
soil property estimation procedure.

Figure 4.7.3.9: Additional Soil Tests

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4.8 Create/Edit Structural Sections and Materials

From the drop-down button of the General tab of DeepEX, we can modify the structural
properties of all sections that will be used in our model. The following sections present in detail
all the available options and dialogs.

Figure 4.8.1: The Structural Sections menu

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4.8.1 Data entry: Wall Types and General Wall Type Options

Wall sections are databases of wall properties that can be used in any wall within a design section.

Figure 4.8.1.1: Edit wall properties dialog.

The following table presents the dimension properties that are available in the wall sections
dialog:

Symbol Description
d The width of the wall
S The horizontal spacing of the wall
Passive Passive horizontal tributary width below the excavation (for non-
width continuous wall types typically use 2.5 to 3 x Pile Width)
Active Active horizontal tributary width below the excavation (for non-
width continuous wall types typically use Pile Width)
Water Water horizontal tributary width below the excavation (for non-
width continuous wall types typically use Pile Width)

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DeepEX contains the wall types that are presented in the table below. The data entry of each wall
type will be described in the following paragraphs.

Option Description
Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,
supported by H-section steel beams. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,
supported by reinforced concrete beams. This option
will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,

supported by pipe-section steel beams. This option
will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,

supported by pipe-section steel beams, filled with
concrete. This option will deactivate all other wall type
parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,
supported by channel-section steel beams. This option
will deactivate all other wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,
supported by double channel-section steel beams.
This option will deactivate all other wall type
parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,
supported by plain concrete beams. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,

supported by timber piles. This option will deactivate
all other wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and lagging wall,
supported by rectangular hollow beams. This option
will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a sheet pile wall. This option

will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

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Select this option to use a wooden sheet pile wall. This

option will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported

by H-section steel beams. This option will deactivate
all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported

by reinforced concrete piles. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported

by pipe-section steel beams, filled with concrete. This
option will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a secant pile wall. This option

will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported

by channel-section steel beams. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported

by double channel-section steel beams. This option
will deactivate all other wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported
by reinforced concrete piles. The secondary piles can
be reinforced as well. This option will deactivate all
other wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported
by H-section steel beams. The secondary piles can be
reinforced as well. This option will deactivate all other
wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a secant pile wall, supported
by rectangular hollow steel beams. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a tangent pile wall, supported

by H-section steel beams. This option will deactivate
all other wall type parameters.

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Select this option to use a tangent pile wall, supported

by reinforced concrete piles. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a tangent pile wall, supported

by -section steel beams, filled with concrete. This
option will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a tangent pile wall, supported

by double channel-section steel beams. This option
will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a tangent pile wall. This option

will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a tangent pile wall, supported

by channel-section steel beams. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a tangent pile wall, supported

by rectangular hollow steel beams. This option will
deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use diaphragm wall. This option

will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use T-section diaphragm wall. This

option will deactivate all other wall type parameters.

Select this option to use inverted T-section diaphragm

wall. This option will deactivate all other wall type
parameters.

Select this option to use a soldier pile and tremied

concrete wall, supported by H-section steel beams.
This option will deactivate all other wall type
parameters.

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Select this option to use a soldier pile and tremied

concrete wall, supported by double channel-section
steel beams. This option will deactivate all other wall
type parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and tremied
concrete wall, supported by -section steel beams,
filled with concrete. This option will deactivate all
other wall type parameters.
Select this option to use a soldier pile and tremied
concrete wall, supported by channel-section steel
beams. This option will deactivate all other wall type
parameters.

Select this option to create a wall with manually

defined properties. This option will deactivate all other
wall type parameters.

Select this option to use a combined wall with H-

section beams and sheet piles. This option will
deactivate all other wall parameters.

Select this option to use a combined wall with double

H-section beams and sheet piles. This option will
deactivate all other wall parameters.

Select this option to use a combined wall with pipe

section beams and sheet piles. This option will
deactivate all other wall parameters.

Select this option to use a box sheet pile wall with CAZ
sheet pile sections. This option will deactivate all other
wall parameters.

Select this option to use a box sheet pile wall with CUZ
sheet pile sections. This option will deactivate all other
wall parameters.

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By clicking on the button of the wall sections dialog, the dialog in Figure 3.7.2.b appears. This
dialog contains useful information regarding the passive and active widths.

Figure 4.8.1.2: Help for passive and active widths dialog.

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4.8.2 Wall type: Soldier piles

At the wall sections dialog, the user can choose to use a soldier pile wall with a standard pile/steel
section type. DeepEX includes all European and US standard sections. In this dialog can modify
the dimensions of the wall.

Figure 4.8.2.1: General section and dimensions for Soldier pile walls.
In E. Lagging tab, we can modify the lagging properties, such us the lagging type (timber or
concrete), and the lagging thickness and section. Finally, here we can also define the lagging
position in the wall.

Figure 4.8.2.2: Lagging properties.

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The following table presents the options that are included in this dialog tab.

Parameter Description
Option to use Timber Defines the lagging type, allowing user to define the exact
or Concrete lagging parameters
Defines the timber lagging section from the provided options
Timber lagging
(it can be edited)
Lagging thickness Defines the lagging thickness
Defines the timber material (option to use construction timber
Mat.
or regular grade)
Defines the concrete lagging section from the provided
Concrete lagging
options (it can be edited)
Defines the lagging arch angle (0 deg means parallel to the
Arch Angle
wall)
Defines the lagging position according to the wall piles.
Provided options:
• Left side outside of pile face
Lagging position • Left side inside pile flange
• Center of the wall
• Right side outside of pile face
• Right side inside pile flange
Defines the calculation method for the lagging.
Provided options:
Calculation Method • California trenching and shoring manual
• Full active earth pressures
• User defined
Defines the bending moments and shear calculation method.
Provided options:
Bending and shear
• Simple span bending
calculations
• 50% pressure at center
• User defined

In B. Steel Beams tab, we can define the steel beam properties or select a standard section.
DeepEX includes extensive steel member databases. The Pipe sections can be filled or not with
concrete.

The reduced steel pipe capacity due to threads option reduces the section modulus of a steel pipe
to account for strength reductions due to the presence of threads in the piping. Fully welded
pipes will likely provide all the theoretical capacity and will likely not require that this feature is
activated.

The available section properties are presented and described in the table below.

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Symbol Description
D Depth or diameter
A Area
Ixx Strong axis moment of inertia
Iyy Weak axis moment of inertia
Sxx Strong axis elastic section modulus
Syy Weak axis elastic section modulus
rx Strong axis radius of gyration
ry Weak axis radius of gyration
Zxx Strong axis plastic section modulus
Zyy Weak axis plastic section modulus
tP Thickness
J Rotational moment of inertia
W Wrapping constant

Figure 4.8.2.3: H-sections.

The parameters unsupported length Lb and unsupported length Lx factor below excavation
control the buckling calculations for the wall capacity.

Some other useful options like Reduce steel pipe capacity due to threads and Effectiveness of
concrete for stiffness calculations are available in this dialog. Finally, the user can manually set
the section properties my choosing the Edit strut properties manually option.

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Figure 4.8.2.4: H-section soldier pile wall plan.

Figure 4.8.2.5: Double channel sections.

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Figure 4.8.2.6: Double channel section soldier pile wall plan.

Figure 4.8.2.7: Pipe sections filled with concrete.

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Figure 4.8.2.8: Pipe section filled with concrete soldier pile wall plan.

Figure 4.8.2.9: Other options.

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Figure 4.8.2.10: Edit sections manually.

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4.8.3 Wall type: Sheet piles

At the wall sections dialog, we can select to use sheet pile walls and select a sheet pile section
from the software implemented sections database.

Figure 4.8.3.1: General section and dimensions for sheet pile walls.
In C. sheet piles tab, we can change the sheet pile properties. These properties are presented in
the following table. The F. Draw tab presents the plan view of the selected sheet pile section.

Symbol Description
h Height
A Area
b Base length
tf Flange thickness
Ixx Strong axis moment of inertia
Sxx Strong axis elastic section modulus
s Web thickness
α Base angle of web from horizontal axis

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Figure 4.8.3.2: Sheet pile properties.

Figure 4.8.3.3: Sheet pile wall plan.

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When we select to use sheet piles in the model (by double clicking on the wall and assigning a
sheet pile section), then an additional button appears in the Design tab of DeepEX. By pressing

on the button , the Sheep pile corrosion options dialog appears. In this dialog user can
choose to examine the design life of the structure, adding corrosion effects to the sheet pile walls.
This option is usually applied to an additional final stage, after the last excavation stage.

Figure 4.8.3.4: Sheet pile corrosion options dialog.

The following options are available:

Option to examine design life

Define the design life (in years)
Choose to define corrosion rates or thickness loss properties
Define corrosion rate or thickness loss in splash zone (high attack)
Define corrosion rate or thickness loss in soil
Define corrosion rate or thickness loss in intertidal zone
Option to use absolute water elevations
Define water elevations (mean high water, low water table, splash depth zone)
Define the minimum recommended thickness for sheet piles
Option to examine minimum section properties percentage

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4.8.4 Wall type: Secant - tangent piles

At the wall sections dialog, we can select to use secant pile or tangent pile walls. The user can
choose to use a standard steel section for the piles. DeepEX includes all European and US standard
sections.

Figure 4.8.4.1: General steel section and dimensions for secant pile walls.
In B. steel beams tab, the user can modify the steel section properties. These properties are
presented and described in the table below. User can choose to have multiple unreinforced piles
with the same or different section size than the reinforced ones. Finally, in the Steel Beams or
Concrete-Rebar tab of DeepEX (depending on the selected wall type), user can assign different
reinforcement sections for the secondary piles.

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Figure 4.8.4.2: Steel section properties.

Figure 4.8.4.3: H-sections.

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Figure 4.8.4.4: H-section secant pile wall plan.

Figure 4.8.4.5: Double channel sections.

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Figure 4.8.4.6: Double channel section secant pile wall plan.

Figure 4.8.4.7: Pipe sections filled with concrete.

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Figure 4.8.4.8: Pipe section filled with concrete secant pile wall plan.

Figure 4.8.4.9: Secant pile wall with multiple unreinforced piles plan.

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Figure 4.8.4.10: Option to define secondary pile reinforcement.

Figure 4.8.4.11: Secant pile wall with reinforced secondary piles.

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4.8.5 Wall type: Diaphragm walls (slurry walls US)

At the wall type, we can select to use diaphragm walls. We can modify the dimensions of the wall
in the marked area of Figure 4.8.5.1. In D. Concrete –Rebar tab we can change the concrete and
rebar steel properties and define the wall’s reinforcement (Figure 4.8.5.2). When the option to
use more than one reinforcement sections is selected, the multiple reinforcement options tab
appears (Figure 4.8.5.3). The properties included in this tab are presented and described in the
table below. Figure 4.8.5.48 shows the plan of a diaphragm as presented in F. Draw tab. In DeepEX
2018, user can additionally choose to use T-Section or inverted T-Section diaphragms (Figure
4.8.5.5)

Figure 4.8.5.1: Dimensions for diaphragm walls.

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Symbol Description
D Wall thickness (height)
A Area
B Wall bare length
Bw Wall length
Ixx Strong axis moment of inertia
N Number of reinforcement bars
Bar# Rotational moment of inertia
As top Top reinforcement area
As bot Top reinforcement area
Ctop Top clearance to center of bar
Cbot Bottom clearance to center of bar
sV Vertical spacing of shear reinforcement
sH Horizontal spacing of shear reinforcement
Use more than one Option that turns on the use of multiple reinforcement for the wall
reinforcement sections
Treat wall as slab Option that is used only for diaphragm walls and allows them to be
treated as slabs for the shear capacity calculations

Figure 4.8.5.2: Concrete and rebar properties.

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Figure 4.8.5.3: The multiple reinforcement options tab.

The following table presents the properties that are available in the multiple reinforcement
options tab:

Length of the reinforcement (starting from top)

Left bar size
Number of left bars
Area of left bars
Clearance for the left bars
Right bar size
Number of right bars
Area of right bars
Clearance for the right bars
Option to use shear reinforcement
Dimension of shear reinforcement bars
Area of shear reinforcement
Horizontal spacing of shear reinforcement
Vertical spacing of shear reinforcement
Option to use and edit multiple reinforcement layers

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Figure 4.8.5.4: Diaphragm wall plan.

Figure 4.8.5.5: T-section diaphragm wall plan.

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4.8.6 Wall type: Soldier pile and tremied concrete walls

At the wall sections dialog, the user can choose to use soldier pile and tremied concrete walls.
The user can choose to use a standard steel section from the area marked in Figure 4.8.6.1.
DeepEX includes all European and US standard sections.

Figure 4.8.6.1: General section and dimensions for Soldier pile and tremied concrete walls.
The steel beam properties and options are the same as described in paragraph 4.8.1. Figure
4.8.6.2 shows the plan of a sheet pile wall as presented in F. Draw tab.

Figure 4.8.6.2: Soldier pile and tremied concrete wall plan.

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4.8.7 Wall type: Custom

By using this wall type the user can define directly the wall moment of inertia, the wall thickness
and the top and bottom wall releases without using any of the available wall types. Figures 4.8.7.1
and 4.8.7.2 show the custom wall properties and the custom wall plan respectively.

Figure 4.8.7.1: Custom wall properties.

Top Top elevation of section
Mat Section material
Ixx Moment of inertia
Bottom release Bottom or the section releases
Top release Top of the section releases
t Section thickness

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Figure 4.8.7.2: Custom wall plan.

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4.8.8 Wall type: Combined walls

At the wall sections dialog, we can select to use combined walls. We can choose to use a standard
steel section from the area marked in Figure 4.8.8.1. DeepEX includes a number of Arcelor
specified sections. However, the user is free to specify his own data. Then, the program directly
passes the selected section’s properties to the sheet pile page and the steel beam page. We can
later change the steel beam or sheet pile sections individually from the tabs (Figure 4.8.8.2), but
it is recommended to keep the predefined values.

Figure 4.8.8.1: Combined wall dialog.

Figure 4.8.8.2: Combined wall dialog-sheet piles.

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4.8.9 Wall type: Box Sheet Pile walls

At the wall sections dialog, we can select to use box sheet pile walls. We can choose to use a
standard steel section from the area marked in Figure 4.8.8.1. DeepEX includes a number of
specified sections. However, the user is free to specify his own data. Then, the program directly
passes the selected section’s properties.

Figure 4.8.9.1: Box sheet piles dialog.

Figure 4.8.9.2: Box sheet pile wall section.

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4.8.9 Data entry: Tieback sections

In the Tieback Anchors - Sections dialog we can define the strand material and diameter, the grout
options and a geotechnical factor of safety. In most cases, tiebacks are pressure grouted in order
to achieve greater capacities. We can capture such effects by including a densification multiplier
for the frictional and cohesional components of the shear resistance. These factors require careful
consideration and can be used to obtain a preliminary estimate of geotechnical tieback capacity
(Figure 4.8.9.1). In the overwhelming majority of projects, all tiebacks have to be tested. For the
cohesional component you can select an adhesion factor behavior (multiplier for the cohesion).
The frictional component of the tieback capacity is calculated from the average effective confining
stress at the tieback (at-rest on sides + vertical on top & bottom). Bearing capacity is ignored. The
tieback section can be selected from three main types:

A) Strands or user bars

B) Solid bar
C) User area
D) Pipe micropile
E) Beam micropile

Figure 4.8.9.1: Tieback - anchor sections dialog.

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Here the user can define the following properties:

Symbol Description
Name Define the section name
Rebar steel mat Define the rebar steel material
fy The yield strength for the steel
E Modulus of elasticity
Strand diam Diameter for strands (if strands option is selected)
Di Internal strand diameter (if strands option is selected)
No Number of strands used (if strands option is selected)
Bar # The bar diameter (if solid bars option is selected)
No Number of bars used (if solid bars option is selected)
A Reinforcement area (if user area option is selected)
Concrete mat Define the concrete material used as grout
Dfix Fixed (grouted) diameter. This diameter is usually a function of the
performed diameter (or drill diameter)

Figure 4.8.9.2: Advanced geotechnical options.

The geotechnical safety factor in this dialog is used when the custom Geo FS option is not
selected in the mail program.

Here the user can define the following properties:

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Symbol Description
Ultimate Define ultimate pressure bond (if the option is selected), so that
Pressure bond the ultimate geotechnical capacity to be calculated from the
pressure bond
- Use and define densification of frictional shear resistance (if option
is selected)
- Use and define densification of cohesional shear resistance (if
option is selected)
Adhesion factor Define adhesion factors (if the option is selected)

Figure 4.8.9.3: Advanced options.

Symbol Description
- Define the structural allowable stress factor for steel
- Define the color of the free length and fixed body
Fall Define the allowable geotechnical capacity (if the use user defined
capacity option is selected)
Fmax Define the maximum geotechnical capacity (if the use user defined
capacity option is selected)
Fall Define the allowable structural capacity
Fmax Define the maximum structural capacity
Ixx.strand Moment of inertia of the strand
Sxx.strand Elastic section modulus for one strand (used in soil nails)
Zxx.strand Plastic section modulus for one strand (used in soil nails)
- Option to ignore capacities for spring methods (will create a non-
yielding element, recommended option)

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4.8.10 Data entry: Helical anchor sections

From the Helical Anchors dialog (Figure 4.8.10.1) the user can select an anchor from the existing
database of anchors or add some sections to the database. These anchors can use in the project.
The General tab contains basic structural information. The Geotechnical capacity tab contains
options for calculating the geotechnical tieback capacity. In the Advanced tab the user can specify
safety factors as well as customize the allowable and ultimate geotechnical and structural
capacities. The properties included in this dialog are presented and described in the table below.

Symbol/Option Description
Fy Tensile Yield Strength of anchor
Fu Tensile Ultimate Strength of anchor
Diameter Anchor diameter
Thickness Anchor thickness
Ixx Moment of inertia
Sxx Elastic section modulus
Zxx Plastic section modulus
Telastic Torsional elastic pipe capacity
Tplastic Torsional plastic pipe capacity
E Modulus of elasticity
Apipe Area of the pipe of the anchor
Qyield Tensile yield shaft capacity
Qultimate Tensile ultimate shaft capacity
Helix diameter The diameter of the helical plate
Helix spacing The spacing between the helical plates
Helix thickness The thickness of the helical plate
Effective helix area The effective area of the helical plate
Helix pitch The helical plate inclination
Qhelix Ultimate tension capacity for one helical plate
FS Factor of safety
σ’ vmax Limiting vertical stress

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Figure 4.8.10.1: Helical anchor sections dialog.

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4.8.11 Data entry: Strut sections

The strut section properties can be modified either by clicking on the Edit strut sections button

of the Properties tab, or by clicking on the Edit section button of the Edit support data dialog
that opens when the user adds a raker or a strut to the model. Struts and rakers in DeepEX can
be either H-section steel beams, hollow square sections, or pipes. DeepEX includes all European
and US standard sections. The user can choose a section from the program’s database or edit the
strut properties manually (Figure 4.8.11.1) The properties are presented and described in the
following table.

Figure 4.8.11.1: Strut sections dialog.

From DeepEX 2018 double member struts can be defined. With this option, the flange bracing,
and member offset may have to be defined. For H type strut sections, it is advisable to use a
vertical orientation with this option.

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Symbol Description
D Depth or diameter
A Area
fy Yield strength
Ixx Strong axis moment of inertia
Iyy Weak axis moment of inertia
Sxx Strong axis elastic section modulus
Syy Weak axis elastic section modulus
rx Strong axis radius of gyration
ry Weak axis radius of gyration
Zxx Strong axis plastic section modulus
Zyy Weak axis plastic section modulus
tP Thickness
J Rotational moment of inertia
W Wrapping constant
Member offset For double members this is the horizontal offset
Lb This is the unbraced flange length. This means that lateral bracing
(lacing) is provided at regular intervals. The lateral bracing is not
designed by the program.
After defining the strut section properties, the user can define the strut or raker prestress in the
edit support dialog (Figure 4.8.11.2). If prestress is applied, it must be applied ONLY in the
support installation stage. For struts a negative prestress would indicate compression
(recommended).

Figure 4.8.11.2: Strut prestress dialog.

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After the calculation of the model, by pressing on the button Show Full Calculations in this form,
an html file opens, containing all calculations and equations that have been performed for the
current support in the current stage (Figure 3.8.11.3).

Figure 4.8.11.3: Strut support calculations.

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4.8.12 Mechanical and Hydraulic Strut sections

The strut section properties can be modified either by clicking on the Edit mechanical and

hydraulic strut sections button of the General tab, or by clicking on the Edit section button
of the Edit support data dialog that opens when the user adds a raker or a strut to the model. In
order to access the Edit mechanical and Hydraulic struts dialog from the Edit Strut dialog, user
should also choose the option “Use mechanical or Hydraulic struts”. Mechanical and Hydraulic
struts and rakers in DeepEX can be either hollow square sections, or pipes. Users can choose a
section from the program’s database or edit the strut properties manually (Figures 4.8.12.1 to
4.8.12.4). The properties are presented and described in the following tables.

Figure 4.8.12.4: Mechanical and Hydraulic Struts dialog – Type-Dimensions tab.

Symbol Description

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D Depth or diameter
A Area
fy Yield strength
Ixx Strong axis moment of inertia
Iyy Weak axis moment of inertia
Sxx Strong axis elastic section modulus
Syy Weak axis elastic section modulus
rx Strong axis radius of gyration
ry Weak axis radius of gyration
Zxx Strong axis plastic section modulus
Zyy Weak axis plastic section modulus
tP Thickness
J Rotational moment of inertia
W Wrapping constant
Option to use a pipe section and list of available pipe sections
Option to use a hollow section and list of available hollow sections
Option “Use a Jack Allows the use of a hydraulic or mechanical jack
Define jack type (mechanical or hydraulic)
Define piston or jack area (depending on the jack type)
Define number of units
Define outer unit size
Define inner unit size
Define fluid modulus Efluid (in case of hydraulic jack)
Define fluid length Lfluid (in case of hydraulic jack)
Lcon Start connector length
Lhydraulic unit Hydraulic unit length (when used)
Option to modify strut section properties manually
Option to model strut section as non-yielding (in non-linear analysis)

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Figure 4.8.12.2: Mechanical and Hydraulic Struts dialog – Strength tab.

In this tab, user can define either to define rated strength, defining allowable and maximum
strength for the strut, or insert manually the axial capacity vs length graphs, usually provided by
the strut manufacturers. In this case, there are options to define whether the capacity profile is
allowable or not, and if the profile should be used in the model.

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Figure 4.8.12.3: Mechanical and Hydraulic Struts dialog – Transition struts tab and dialog.
Here user can choose to use transition units. For each transition unit, user can choose to modify
the unit properties. The following options are available:

Edit item ID or name

Option to use a pipe section or a hollow rectangular section
Define element length
Define element thickness
Define start and end element dimensions
Define connection flange thickness
Define start and end flange dimensions
Option that stiffeners are continuous from start to end
Options to use stiffeners on each side
Stiffener dimensions (when any of the previous options is selected)

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Figure 4.8.12.4: Mechanical and Hydraulic Struts dialog – Connector plated tab.
In this dialog user can choose to use connector plates and define the connector types. The
following options are available:

• Edit start plate at connector

• Edit start plate at strut
• Edit end plate at strut
• Edit end plate at connector
• Edit connector type

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Figure 4.8.12.5: Plate connection data dialog.

In this dialog user can choose to use plate connection, to use stiffeners and define the plate and
stiffeners dimensions. The following properties are available:

Option to use connection plate

Define plate shape (circular, rectangular)
Define plate thickness
Define plate depth or diameter
Option to use stiffeners
Define stiffener depth
Define stiffener length at top
Define stiffener length at bottom
Define stiffener thickness
Define number of plates

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Figure 4.8.12.6: Connector type and data dialog.

In this dialog user can define the connector type and properties. The following properties are
available:

Define connector name or ID

Choose connector type (Pin type/swivel or Base plate for mechanical)
Define connector thickness and diameter
Define number of plates at start and at end of the strut

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4.8.13 Data entry: Slab sections and slab supports

The slab section properties can be modified either by clicking on the Edit slab sections button

of the Properties tab, or by clicking on the Edit section button of the Edit support data
dialog that opens when the user adds a slab to the model. In A. Section Properties tab, we can
modify the concrete and rebar steel properties and define the wall’s reinforcement (Figure
4.8.13.1). The properties included in this tab are described in the following table. Sometimes we
may choose to define the slab’s prestress in the edit support dialog (Figure 4.8.13.2)

Figure 4.8.13.1: Slab Sections dialog.

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Symbol Description
D Wall thickness
A Area
B Wall length
Bw Wall length
Ixx Strong axis moment of inertia
tf Flange thickness
Bar# Reinforcement area
As, top Top reinforcement area
As, bot Top reinforcement area
Ctop Top clearance to center of top bar
Cbot Bottom clearance to center of bottom bar
sX Horizontal spacing of shear reinforcement
sY Spacing of shear reinforcement in out of plane direction (in the
model screen)

Figure 4.8.13.2: Slab elevation on wall, spacing (effective length) and section.

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At the C. Results tab, results for the slab are available when the model is calculated.

Figure 4.8.13.3: Slab results.

The following results are available in the results tab:
Symbol Description
Paxial Axial load on slab
M Moment at center span
Pall Allowable axial capacity
Pult Ultimate axial capacity
Mleft Left moment (>0 when slab is restrained)
MLdesign Left side design moment (factored with safety factor)
Mright Right side moment (>0 when slab is restrained)
MRdesign Right side design moment (factored design moment)
Mcapacity top Moment capacity of the slab for negative moments
Ubottom Water pressure SLS (unfactored water pressure at bottom of slab
when the slab is used to seal the excavation)
Vleft Left side shear
VLdesign Left side design shear
VLcap Left side shear capacity
Vright Right side shear
VRdesign Right side design shear
VRcap Right side shear capacity

In addition, we can see the geotechnical and the structural allowable and ultimate axial capacities
of the slab.

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4.8.14 Data entry: Bearing Plates

In the Bearing Plates – Properties dialog of DeepEX, we can define the bearing plate dimensions
and materials (steel/concrete and material grades).

Figure 4.8.14.1: Bearing Plates dialog.

4.8.15 Data entry: Timber Waler Sections

In the Timber Wale Sections dialog of DeepEX, we can define the timber wale sections dimensions
and material grades.

Figure 4.8.15.1: Timber Wale Sections dialog.

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4.8.16 Data Entry: Steen, Concrete and Hydraulic Wale Sections

In DeepEX the walers can be used either as waler beams that can be added on any already created
support (tiebacks, struts, rakers, concrete slabs), or as standalone wale supports. we can create
unlimited number of waler sections, define the section properties and assign easily different
sections to different walers. The Waler and Hydraulic Waler sections dialogs can be accessed
either from the Edit Support dialog (which appears when we add a new waler or double-click on
an existing waler), or by the General tab of DeepEX.

Figure 4.8.16.1: Option to define waler and hydraulic waler sections in DeepEX General tab

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Defining Steel Section Waler Beam Properties

In the Waler sections dialog we can select to use H Beams as walers. In that case, we can choose
a steel member structural section from the DeepEX international implemented database. The
section properties are implemented in the software and can be accessed and modified manually
if we need to simulate a section that is not included in DeepEX.

In this dialog we can also define the material, the section orientation of H beams (selection to
auto-rotate in case of tieback supports, following the tieback angle or definition of a specific angle
from horizontal), as well as, the number of steel members (if we wish to use more than one steel
member) and in that case, also the spacing between the members.

Figure 4.8.16.2: Add and define steel section waler properties

Figure 4.8.16.3: Steel section waler beam applied on a tieback support

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Defining Concrete Section Waler Beam Properties

In the Waler sections dialog we can select to use concrete sections as walers. In that case, we can
choose a concrete structural section from the DeepEX database. The section properties are
implemented in the software and can be accessed and modified manually if we need to simulate
a section that is not included in DeepEX. In this dialog we can also define the materials. We can
define the section size and reinforcement.

Figure 4.8.16.4: Add and define concrete section waler properties

Figure 4.8.16.5: Concrete section waler beam applied on a raker support

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Defining Mechanical or Hydraulic Section Waler Beam Properties

In the Hydraulic Waler sections dialog we can select to define the waler section properties. We
can define the main steel section by choosing an H Beam or Rectangular hollow section from the
software international databases. We have to define the Jack structural properties (section,
length and design capacities) and we can also choose to use transition units from Jack to main
section. In that case, we can select the section of the transition unit. Finally, we can define the
joint moment capacities.

Figure 4.8.16.6: Add and define mechanical and hydraulic section waler properties

Figure 4.8.16.7: Mechanical waler beam applied on a mechanical strut support

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4.8.17 Define Wale Support Sections

In DeepEX we can use wale as supports (different option than the wale beams that are
constructed to be attached to other supports like tiebacks, struts and rakers). We can create
unlimited number of wale support sections, define the section properties and assign easily
different sections to different wale supports. The Wale Supports sections dialog can be accessed
either from the Edit Support dialog (which appears when we add a new support or double-click
on an existing support), or by the General tab of DeepEX.

Figure 4.8.17.1: Option to define wale support sections in DeepEX General tab
In the Wale support sections dialog we can select the wale type (box type or circular) and the
section properties, depending on the selected type. The choice of shape type affects structural
and stiffness calculations.

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Defining Box Type Wale Support Properties

For box type wale supports, the equivalent stiffness is computed at the center of the span
according to assumed bending shape and deflection shape for a uniform loaded beam (simple
span or fixed ends). In each case, the used equations for computing the waler spring stiffness and
bending moments are presented within the input dialog according to the selected shape. The
waler bending is examined at both the waler ends as well as at the waler span.

For box type walers, the length L is used for calculating the bending moments, and the width B is
used for computing the axial force on the examined waler. A separate model may be required if
we need to examine the B side with the waler L & B dimensions reversed. The unsupported length
is considering bending and bucking in the vertical axis where normally additional vertical support
is provided. If no additional vertical support is provided, then this dimension should be equal to
the length L.

Figure 4.8.17.2: Add and define box type wale support properties

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Defining Circular Type Wale Support Section Properties

For circular wale supports, the length L is used to define the number of elements within the
circular waler arrangement. This length may be later adjusted during calculation time so that the
waler sections fit within the prescribed shaft radius in an integer number (i.e. We cannot have
4.6 waler sections that would have to be rounded to 5). The shaft radius can be computed
automatically (the program looks for the excavation side) or can be input by the user. The
equivalent stiffness is computed from radial action theory and is affected by the effective
modulus of elasticity, the shaft radius, and waler section area.

Figure 4.8.17.3: Define circular type wale support properties

Defining Stiffness and Eccentricity Parameters and Structural Sections

Because of setup and other issues, it is typical to use stiffness adjustments for waler supports
especially for concrete sections. As such, the program includes two stiffness modification factors,
one for concrete walers and one for steel walers. The factors are used to modify the assumed
elasticity modulus for the specific waler support.

Last, eccentricity issues (due to construction variations) may also be important with waler
supports. For this reason, the program suggests an eccentricity in the horizontal axis of 3% or
minimum 10cm (3 inch). This eccentricity is applied as an additional bending moment on the span
section. These values can be modified according to user preferences.

As waler support structural sections we can use any of the existing wale sections, or we can add
and edit new.

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4.8.18 Define Structural Materials

In DeepEX we can create several material types for different material categories (construction
steel, concrete, rebar steel, user materials and timber (wood)). The Edit Structural materials
dialog can be accessed from the Edit wall sections dialog, as well as, from the General tab of
DeepEX (Figure 3.16.1).

Figure 4.8.18.1: Option to define structural materials in DeepEX General tab

Figure 4.8.18.2: Options to define structural materials in the Wall sections dialog

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Edit Construction Steel Material Properties

In this tab we can edit the structural steel material properties. We can either select to add new
materials and define their properties manually, or we can import already available materials from
the “Import standard steel materials” box. The edited construction steel material list will be
available in all partial dialogs (wall and support sections) that are using steel members.

Figure 4.8.18.3: Add and edit construction steel materials manually

Figure 4.8.18.4: Import a structural steel material from database

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Edit Concrete Material Properties

In this tab we can edit the concrete material properties. We can either select to add new materials
and define their properties manually, or we can import already available materials from the
“Import standard steel materials” box. The edited concrete material list will be available in all
partial dialogs (wall and support sections) that are using reinforced concrete members.

Figure 4.8.18.5: Add and edit concrete materials manually

Figure 4.8.18.6: Import a concrete material from database

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Edit Rebar Steel/Strand Material Properties

In this tab we can edit the rebar steel material properties. We can either select to add new
materials and define their properties manually, or we can import already available materials from
the “Import standard steel materials” box. The edited rebar steel material list will be available in
all partial dialogs (wall and support sections) that are using reinforced concrete members. The
same list is used for tieback sections (strands, rebars).

Figure 4.8.18.7: Add and edit rebar steel materials manually

Figure 4.8.18.8: Import a rebar steel material from database

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Edit User Material Properties

In this tab we can edit the user material properties. We can add new user materials and define
the modulus of elasticity. The user materials can be used in Custom wall sections.

Figure 4.8.18.9: Add and edit user materials

Edit Timber/Wood Material Properties

In this tab we can edit the wood material properties. We can add new wood materials and define
the properties. The wood materials can be used in lagging and timber piles. The option “Set
default timber materials” populates the list with the materials existing in the database.

Figure 4.8.18.10: Add and edit wood materials

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4.9 Define Stratigraphy – Borings – CPT logs – SPT Tests

In any DeepEX project file we can define unlimited number of borings, to simulate all different
boreholes as described in the geotechnical report. If needed, we can assign a different boring in
each design section from the drop-down in the General tab of DeepEX.

Figure 4.9.1: Assign a boring to the selected design section

When we select the option Edit Boring in the General tab of DeepEX, the Edit Soil Layers dialog
appears. There we can select to add new borings in the project database. We can access each one
of them and define the stratigraphy by defining top of the soil layer elevation and select a soil
type below the specified elevation from the list of soils, for each soil layer. We can repeat soil
types in different depths.

In the same dialog, we can also choose to add and assign aν SPT or CPT record. CPT records can
be added using excel files. In case we define a record, DeepEX will use the soil types of the soil
layers we defined and will estimate the soil properties from the records.

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Figure 4.9.2: Define soil layers in DeepEX

Figure 4.9.3: Add and define an SPT record in DeepEX

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Figure 4.9.4: Add and define a CPT record in DeepEX

Figure 4.9.5: SPT and CPT properties estimation options

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4.10 Custom Layers in DeepEX – Non-Horizontal Soil Layers

DeepEX includes a Custom Layer mode that can generate lines with points, simulating the surface
of each soil layer. This way, we can define non-horizontal stratigraphies below the ground surface.
The Custom Layer options are included in the General tab of DeepEX.

Figure 4.10.1: Custom layer options in DeepEX

Generating custom layers

In order to create the custom layers for the first time in a specific project file, we have to access
the Custom Layers options in the General tab of DeepEX, select the option “Use custom layers”,
access again and select the option “Reset layers from boring”. This action will generate new lines
with points simulating the surface line of each soil layer of the boring we have currently selected.

After the first time the soil layers are generated, the “Use custom layers” option can be used as a
toggle button to change between normal and custom layer mode of DeepEX. The “Reset layers
from boring” option can be used to generate again the custom layers using the same or a different
boring (depending on the selected boring in the specific design section).

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Figure 4.10.2: Custom layer lines generated in DeepEX

Editing custom layers

When the Custom Layer mode is on, we can access the soil layer lines with our mouse. The lines
will highlight, allowing us to double-click on them and edit their properties. In the dialog that
appears we can define the position (x-coordinate and elevation) of each layer point, select to add
new points and even change the soil type below the selected custom layer line. The same dialog
can be accessed when we press right on the Custom Layers button in the general tab of DeepEX
(not on the arrow). There we can select which layer we wish to edit.

Figure 4.10.3: Edit a custom layer in DeepEX

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Drawing a new custom layer

When the DeepEX Custom Layer mode in on, we can select the option “Draw a layer line”. By
selecting this tool, we can click on the model area on several points (from left to right along the
screen). By pressing “Enter” from the keyboard, the new soil layer line is generated and we can
define the exact coordinates of all line points and the soil type below the new layer line.

Figure 4.10.4: Draw and edit a new custom layer

Changing the view order of custom layers

When the Custom Layer mode is on, the soil layer properties are presented in Table format. The
order of the soil layers from top to bottom in this table is significant, as layers closer to the bottom
of the table are closer to the viewer. We can change the order by right-clicking on any layer line
on the model area and select to “Bring to Front” or “Send to Back”.

Figure 4.10.5: Change the order of custom layers

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4.11 Add/Delete Walls in DeepEX

In DeepEX we can select to use one or more main walls in each design section. From the version
DeepEX 2019 several walls can be added (more than two opposite walls) to simulate cases like
stepped walls, but these systems with more than two walls can be analyzed only with Limit
Equilibrium and Finite Element Analysis methods (FEM additional optional module is required for
finite element analysis). Models with multiple walls (more than two) cannot be analyzed with the
Non Linear Analysis engine of DeepEX.

Adding/Deleting Right Main Wall

In the General tab of DeepEX we can select the option “Add right wall”. This will add a right main
wall on the model area. By double-clicking on the new wall (or any wall) we can define the wall
name, position and structural section. After a wall is created, we can select the option “Del right
wall”. This action will delete the right wall.

Figure 4.11.1: Option to add right main wall in the model area

Figure 4.11.2: Option to delete right main wall from the model area

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Adding/Deleting Additional Right Walls (after Right Main Wall)

In the General tab of DeepEX we can select the option “Add wall on the right”. This will add a new
wall on the right side of the right main wall on the model area. By double-clicking on the new wall
(or any wall) we can define the wall name, position and structural section. After a wall is created,
we can select the option “Delete rightmost wall”. This action will delete the last wall to the right.

Figure 4.11.3: Option to add a new wall to the right in the model area

Figure 4.11.4: Option to delete rightmost wall from the model area

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4.12 Define Wall Properties

By double-clicking on each wall in the model area, we can define the wall properties. In the Edit
wall dialog we can define the wall name, the wall section, the wall position (top elevation and X-
wall coordinate) and the wall length. From DeepEX 2018, we can define the wall rotation, using
non-vertical walls.

Figure 4.12.1: Edit Wall properties dialog

The following options are available:

• Edit the wall name

• Select/Edit the wall section properties
• Define wall top elevation
• Define wall depth
• Option to use a custom passive elevation
• Option to define if the wall is permeable
• Option to include wall weight in the analysis
• Define wall coordinates and number of nodes used in LEM calculations.
• Option to rotate wall from vertical and inclination angle

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Defining the Wall Name and Structural Section

We can define the name of each wall on the top of the wall properties dialog. We can assign a
wall section to the selected wall using the project wall sections database. The “Edit” button opens
the Edit wall sections dialog (review section 4.8), where new sections can be added and edited.

Figure 4.12.2: Edit wall name and structural section

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Defining the Top of the Wall Elevation and Wall Depth

We can define the top of the wall elevation and the total wall depth from the enter section of the
Wall properties dialog. The default option in DeepEX is the top of the wall to follow the ground
surface elevation. Nevertheless, we can define the top of the wall elevation in order to place the
wall above or below the ground surface. The initial wall length should be also defined by the user.

In the same area we can select the option to define custom passive elevation (for the calculation
of passive pressures below the excavation). As well as, there is the option that the wall is
permeable and the selection whether to include wall self-weight or not.

Figure 4.12.3: Edit top of the wall elevation and wall depth

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Defining the Wall Position and Rotation from Vertical

On the bottom of the Wall properties dialog we can define the wall position on the model
horizontally, by defining the xWall parameter. This is always the location of the top left point of
the selected wall.

The out-of-plane y parameter defines the location of the design section along the Y axis (direction
on the deep of the screen).

From DeepEX 2018, we can select the option that the wall is rotated from original vertical position
and define the rotation angle. This selection is located below the wall section drawing.

Figure 4.12.4: Edit wall out-of-plane position and rotation from vertical

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Defining the Wall Position and Rotation from Vertical

The element-behaves-as-slave option controls if the wall is connected to the slave nodes
(advanced option). With slave nodes it is possible to attach a wall to secondary parallel nodes
(non-linear analysis). Then tension gap effects can be modeled between the main wall nodes and
the slave nodes if the option is selected from the Analysis tab under advanced.

For the beam continuity it is recommended to keep all options selected.

Figure 4.12.5: Wall data dialog and advanced tab.

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4.13 Use of Additional Wall Elements Option

In DeepEX additional wall elements can be defined on the two main walls (Left and Right main
wall). These wall elements can be used either to change the wall section in depth (i.e. in case of
sheet pile placed on concrete piers), or to design both temporary and inner permanent walls of
an excavation project.

Drawing a wall element

The tool to draw an additional wall element on left or right main wall can be accessed from the
General tab of DeepEX, by pressing the small arrow next to Edit 1st Wall or Edit 2nd Wall
respectively. Next, we have to click on the model area on two spots, close to the point the new
wall element needs to be installed (below or next to the main wall).

Figure 4.13.1: Options to draw additional wall elements on each main wall

Figure 4.13.2: Procedure to add a wall element on the right side of the left main wall

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Defining Additional Wall Element Position and Properties

The Edit Wall Data dialog appears as soon as the wall is inserted. The same dialog appears when
we double-click on any additional wall element in the model area. In this dialog we can define the
name, structural section (choosing from the project wall sections database), dimensions (top and
bottom wall element elevation) and position of the new wall element (options to place the new
wall element along the main wall axis or next to the wall, right beside or in a certain offset
distance).

Figure 4.13.3: Define new wall element name, structural section and position
In the Advanced Features tab, we can define the wall element behavior (master wall – slave to
the main wall) and the top and bottom releases (used in Non-Linear analysis only).

Figure 4.13.4: Additional wall element advanced features

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4.14 Surface Options in DeepEX

In DeepEX software the local x-axis in each design section is along the screen. The x-coordinate 0
is by default the top left point of the main (left) wall. There are several ways to edit the ground
surface in order to simulate the exact project surface.

Edit the surface points manually

Along the main surface on the interactive model area there are surface points, which we can
access (double-click on them) and define the x-coordinate and elevation of each point.

Figure 4.14.1: Edit a surface point manually

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Edit the surface points using the table of coordinates tool

In the General tab of DeepEX, under the Surface Options selection, we can choose to edit the
table of coordinates. This option loads the table, in which we can locate all existing surface points,
we can edit the X-coordinate and elevation of each point and we can choose to add new surface
points (a new point is added right before the point we have selected before pressing to add a new
one). This way, we can add several points and simulate a more composite ground surface.

Figure 4.14.2: Option to load surface points Table of Coordinates

Figure 4.14.3: Surface points edited with the Table of Coordinates tool

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Create Slope or Bench Surfaces Automatically

DeepEX includes tools that allow us to create slope or bench surfaces on the left or right side of
each wall automatically. These tools can be accessed either from the Surface Options selection in
the General tab of the software, or by right-clicking with the mouse on the model area close to
the surface that we wish to edit.

In the dialog that appears when a tool is selected, we can select and define the surface or bench
properties (slope angle, bench offset, bench elevation etc.).

Figure 4.14.4: Automatic surface options

Figure 4.14.6: Left bench surface in DeepEX

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4. 15 Perform Excavations, Dewatering and Backfill Operations

In each construction stage we can perform excavations, dewatering and backfill operations
independently. These operations can be done with the tools in DeepEX General tab and toolbar,
or graphically on the model area.

Defining Exact Ground Surface and Water Elevations

In the General tab of DeepEX we can define the exact elevation of ground surface and water table
for each wall side, in each construction stage. By changing the values in the boxes we can set the
elevation in the specific stage, performing excavations, dewatering and backfill operations in
comparison with the previous stage.

Figure 4.15.1: Surface and water elevations in selected Stage

By accessing the Ground Water Options table, we can define the exact water elevation on each
wall side and choose to dewater automatically (option maintain at subgrade).

Figure 4.15.2: Ground water table options

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Excavating, Backfilling and Dewatering Graphically

In the interactive model area of DeepEX we can move the mouse over any ground surface or
water line and drag-and-drop it, performing excavations, backfill or dewatering operations
graphically.

Figure 4.15.3: Drag and drop aground surface in the model area
Backfilling and Excavating with the Backfill Operation and Excavation tool

From the toolbar on the left side of DeepEX main screen, right above the “Check model” option,
we can access the backfill and excavation tools. By accessing any of them, we can click on various
points on the model area (from left to right), and after the last click press the “Enter” button from
the keyboard. DeepEX will create the new ground surface, using the inserted points.

Figure 4.15.4: Backfill with the backfill operation tool

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4.16 Manage Construction Stages

Deep excavations always require staged construction, since even the wall construction can affect
the performance. In each design section in DeepEX we can add and modify independently
unlimited number of construction stages.

Adding Construction Stages and Editing the Stage Name

A new construction stage can be added either by right-clicking on the last stage and pressing “Add
stage”, or by pressing the “Add stage” option in the General tab of DeepEX. Either way a new
construction stage will be added in the Stages area right below the model. The new stage will be
an exact copy of the last created stage.

We can right-click on each stage and select the option “Edit Name”. The name can be typed in the
command line of DeepEX.

Figure 4.16.1: Options to add construction stages

Figure 4.16.2: Option to edit the name of a construction stage

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Deleting a Construction Stage

A construction stage can be deleted either by right-clicking on the specific stage and pressing
“Delete stage”, or by selecting a stage and pressing the “Delete stage” option in the General tab
of DeepEX. In all cases, the selected stage will be deleted from the design section’s stages list.
Along with the construction stage, there will be deleted all ground surface and water
modifications in the specific stage.

Figure 4.16.3: Options to delete a construction stage

Inserting a Construction Stage

A construction stage can be inserted right before a selected stage. The new stage will be an exact
copy of the selected stage and it can be modified independently. A stage can be inserted either
by right-clicking on the specific stage and pressing “Insert stage”, or by selecting a stage and
pressing the “Insert stage” option in the General tab of DeepEX.

Figure 4.16.4: Options to insert a construction stage

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4.17 Add/Delete/Remove Supports

In DeepEX we can use several support types to simulate any deep excavation system. Figure 4.17.1
presents the available support types. The supports can be added in any construction stage. There
is also an option to remove a support from a certain construction stage and after.

Figure 4.17.1: Available support types in DeepEX

4.17.1 Adding Supports In the Model Area

Supports can be added in the model area graphically. We can use the Draw Supports toolbar in
the General tab of DeepEX, select the support type and click on the model area to add the
support. For tiebacks and rakers, we first have to click on the wall and next to the ground. For
struts, concrete slabs and tierods connecting opposite walls, we have to click first on the left
and next on the right wall. For springs, waler and fixed supports, we have to click one time on
the wall.

Figure 4.17.2: Draw supports tools in DeepEX

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After drawing the support on the model area, the Edit Supports dialog appears. The same dialog
can be accessed any time, by double-clicking on a support in the model area. This dialog is
customized based on the selected support type. In all cases, we have to define the exact support
elevation on the wall and the support spacing (support row on the deep of the screen).

In case of tieback supports (ground anchors), we have to define additionally the lengths of the
free and bonded part of the tieback and the installation angle. The tieback structural section can
be selected from the project database. This database can be edited and new tieback sections can
be added and modified (see section 4.8.9). Finally, we have the option to use helical anchors
instead of normal tiebacks. In that case, the helical anchor database can be accessed and
modified (see section 4.8.10). The ground anchor tool can be used also to define a tierod,
connecting the opposite walls horizontally.

Figure 4.17.3: Add and edit a tieback support in the model area
In case of spring supports, we can choose to use elastoplastic springs and in that case define the
spring stiffness parameters.

Figure 4.17.4: Add and edit a spring support in the model area

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In case of steel struts, we can define additionally the unbraced lengths (vertical and horizontal),
in case these are limited. The strut structural section can be selected from the project database.
This database can be edited and new strut sections can be added and modified (see section
4.8.11). Finally, we have the option to use mechanical or hydraulic strut sections instead of normal
struts. In that case, the mechanical and hydraulic strut sections database can be accessed and
modified (see section 4.8.12).

Figure 4.17.5: Add and edit a strut support in the model area
In case of steel rakers, we can define additionally the installation angle. The raker structural
section can be selected from the project database. This database can be edited and new raker
sections can be added and modified (see section 4.8.11). Finally, we have the option to use
mechanical or hydraulic raker sections instead of normal rakers. In that case, the mechanical and
hydraulic strut sections database can be accessed and modified (see section 4.8.12).

Figure 4.17.6: Add and edit a raker support in the model area

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In case of reinforced concrete slabs, we can define additionally the unbraced lengths (vertical
and horizontal), in case these are limited and the slab live load. The slab structural section can
be selected from the project database. This database can be edited and new slab sections can
be added and modified (see section 4.8.13).

Figure 4.17.7: Add and edit a slab support in the model area
In case of waler supports, we can define additionally the unbraced lengths (vertical and
horizontal), in case these are limited. The waler structural section can be selected from the project
database. This database can be edited and new wale sections can be added and modified (see
section 4.8.17).

Figure 4.17.8: Add and edit a waler support in the model area

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4.17.2 Deleting a Support from the Model Area

A support can be deleted from the model area by taking the mouse over a specific support until
it highlights and press the “Delete” button from the keyboard. This action will permanently delete
the selected support from all stages.

Figure 4.17.9: Delete a tieback support from the model area

4.17.3 Removing/Deactivating a Support in a Construction Stage

In some cases, we need to use a support and remove it in a later construction stage. A support
can be deactivated from the model area by right-clicking on the support and selecting the option
“Deactivate”. This action will deactivate the support for the specific construction stage. The
support will be active in following stages, if the stages were created before the deactivation. To
deactivate in all following stages, we have either to do it manually in each stage (access a stage,
right-click on the support and select deactivate), or use the option “From this stage and then
“Deactivate”.

Figure 4.17.10: Options to deactivate a support

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4.18 Add a Waler Beam on an Existing Support

In DeepEX we can select to apply a wale beam on an existing support graphically. The Draw wale
beam tool can be accessed from the Draw Supports toolbar, in the general tab of DeepEX. We
have to select the tool and then click on the support, close to the wall where the wale beam
needs to be installed. In the dialog that appears, we can select or edit the wale beam section (see
section 4.8.16), the spacing and the loading type.

Figure 4.18.1: Add and edit a wale beam on an existing support

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Figure 4.18.2: Wale beams point load types

Figure 4.18.3: Wale beams uniform load types

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By selecting to edit the wale beam section, we can define the wale beam type (steel-concrete):

Figure 4.18.4: Steel section.

Figure 4.18.5: Concrete section.

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By choosing to use a steel section, the following options are available:

• Use multiple beams: With this selection, more than one beams can be used to the same
support. These beams can be used with a clearance or without one.
• Autorotate the waler: This is possible for some kinds of supports (tiebacks, spring
supports), and only if more than one beams are used. The waler can be installed using the
support’s angle (Autorotate), or the user can define a custom angle (Figure 4.18.6). For
other kinds of supports, the waler is installed horizontally (Figure 4.18.7). Rotation is used
only for steel section beams.

Figure 4.18.6: Rotated wale beam, used with a tieback.

Figure 3.18.7: Horizontal wale beam, used with a raker.

• Enable manual change of steel section properties: With this option, the user can modify
manually the waler’s properties (the steel beam properties and options are the same as
described in paragraph 4.8.16).

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By choosing to use a concrete section, the user has to define the reinforcement properties. These
properties are presented in the table below.

Symbol Description
D Waler height (thickness)
A Area of section
B Waler base dimension
N Number of bars
Bar# Reinforcement bars
As, top Top reinforcement area
As, bot Top reinforcement area
Ctop Top clearance (to center of top bar)
Cbot Bottom clearance (to center of bottom bar)
sV Vertical spacing for shear reinforcement
sH Horizontal spacing for shear reinforcement

Figure 4.18.8: Concrete section beam, used with a raker.

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Figure 3.18.9: The waler dialog - results.

Symbol Description
Paxial Axial force on the waler
Mspan XX Span moment along X-axis
Msup XX Moment along X-axis at support location
Mspan YY Span moment along Y-axis
Msup YY Moment along Y-axis at support location
Vxx Shear along X-axis
Vyy Shear along Y-axis
Pcap Axial capacity
Mx cap Moment capacity along X-axis
My cap Moment capacity along Y-axis
Vxcap Shear capacity along X-axis
Vycap Shear capacity along Y-axis

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4.19 Use a Passive Heelblock

Concrete heelblocks are used as passive elements that transfer raker forces to soil. In DeepEX a
heelblock can be connected to one or more rakers at the same time. DeepEX considers the net
horizontal force balance on the heelblock. For calculating the safety factor against sliding, DeepEX
calculates the active and passive earth forces on each heelblock side. Passive and active earth
forces are computed using an average surface angle according to Coulomb theory with no wall
friction. Wall friction is ignored for heelblocks since the increased passive resistance can only be
realized at considerably greater displacements. DeepEX does not consider the bearing capacity
of a heelblock in the vertical direction.

The Draw a passive heelblock tool can be accessed from the Draw Supports toolbar, in the general
tab of DeepEX. We have to select the tool and then click on the support, close to the poin that
the support is connected to the soil. In the dialog that appears, we have to define heelblock exact
position (x-coordinate and elevation), size, shape and materials.

After a heelblock is installed, we can double-click on each support and select the option to
“connect base to heelblock”.

Figure 4.19.1: Add and edit a passive heelblock

DeepEX calculates the active and passive earth forces on each heel block side. Passive and active
earth forces are computed using an average surface angle according to Coulomb theory with no
wall friction. Wall friction is ignored for heel blocks since the increased passive resistance can only
be realized at considerably greater displacements. DeepEX does not consider the bearing capacity
of a heel block in the vertical direction.

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Figure 4.19.2: Heel block with rakers

Figure 4.19.3: Heel blocks data and heel block input

Then the acting raker forces on the heel block are summed and the available base shear resistance
is computed.

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Heel block input includes:

Parameter Description
Top width Btop Heel block width at top
Bottom width Bbot Heel block width at base <= Btop
Heel block height H Heel block height
Z Heel block elevation at top
X X coordinate of heel block, refers to vertical face where active
earth pressures are acting
Passive on left side If this option is selected, then the slanted face of the heel block
is on the left side and the reference X point is on the right.
Heel block is continuous If this option is selected, then the heel block is treated as
continuous. Otherwise, the block is treated as a 3D shape.
Horizontal spacing S The horizontal spacing of 3D shaped heel blocks (non-continuous
heel blocks)
Length L Heel block length (into page) for 3D shaped heel blocks. L<=S
Base-soil friction ratio (0 to This is the ratio of the available concrete to soil friction ratio at
1) the base. The parameter is used to compute the base shear
resistance due to soil friction. Typical values do not exceed 0.67
(or 67% of available soil friction).
Base adhesion ration (0 to 1) In cohesive soils, adhesion can form between the heel block base
and the base soil. Values of 0.5 is commonly used. Care should
be taken that the entire heel block base is in compressive contact
with the heel block.
3D Wedge effect m3 m3 is a factor that increases the available passive resistance
width to account for 3D effects (3D blocks). The factor increases
the width on each side of the heel block by m3 x the heel block
height. Hence, the passive width is taken as:
s.pass = L + 2 * m3 * H <= S

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4.20 Add/Edit Tiedowns on Slabs

Tiedowns can be added to any base slab or Heelblock on the model area, and are used to provide
resistance to uplift forces that are applied on the slab from hydrostatic pressures. The Draw a
Tiedown tool can be accessed from the Draw Supports toolbar, in the general tab of DeepEX. We
have to select the tool and then click on a slab support, close to the point we wish to connect it
to the slab or Heelblock, and then to the ground. In the dialog that appears we can define the
exact Tiedown parameters (x-coordinate, depth and structural section).

Figure 4.20.1: Add and edit a Tiedown

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4.21 Add/Edit Foundation Piles

Foundation piles can be independently added on the model area, either below concrete slabs and
footings, or directly in the ground. The Draw a Foundation Pile tool can be accessed from the
Draw Supports toolbar, in the general tab of DeepEX. We have to select the tool and then click on
the start and end point, where we wish to place the foundation pile. In the dialog that appears
we can define the exact Pile parameters (x-coordinate, depth and structural section).

Figure 4.21.1: Add and edit a Foundation Pile

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Figure 4.21.2: Define pile type and structural section

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4.21.1 Data entry: Helical Pile Sections

From the Helical Anchors dialog, we can select an anchor from the existing database of anchors
or add some sections to the database. These anchors can be used in the project. The General tab
contains basic structural information. The Geotechnical capacity tab contains options for
calculating the geotechnical tieback capacity. For more information about the helical anchors
dialog, please see section 4.8.10.

4.21.2 Data entry: Non-Helical Pile Sections

From the Pile Sections dialog we can create a list with pile sections that we can use along the pile.
We can add several pile sections to the list on the left side of the dialog, access each added section
and edit them independently, by defining the pile section type, dimensions and reinforcement.

Figure 4.21.2.1: Edit non-helical pile sections

For reinforced concrete sections, user can define the rebar size and number of bars. For steel
sections (pipes, H piles), user can select the steel section from the software implemented
databases.

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Figure 4.21.2.2: Edit reinforced concrete section reinforcement

Figure 4.21.2.3: Edit steel section reinforcement

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4.22 Add/Edit Steel Column Elements

Steel columns connecting existing slabs or steel struts can be added in the model area. The “Draw
a Steel column element” tool can be accessed from the Draw Supports toolbar, in the general tab.
Select the tool and then click on two supports (slabs or struts), where we wish to place the steel
column. In the dialog that appears we can define the exact column parameters (x-coordinate,
spacing, depth and structural section).

Figure 4.22.1: Add and edit a Steel Column

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4.23 Add/Edit 2D External Loads

On the model area of DeepEX we can define several external loads, simulating traffic loads,
construction loads, train loads, loads from nearby building foundations and more, that could be
acting on our support system. Figure 4.23.1 presents the load types that can be used in DeepEX.

Figure 4.23.1: External load types in DeepEX

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Adding and Editing a 2D External Load

Loads can be added in the model area graphically. We can use the Draw Loads toolbar in the
General tab of DeepEX, select the load type and click on the model area to add the external load.
For surface strip surcharges, we have to click on two points on the ground (from left to right).
For surface point loads and train loads we have to click on a single point on the ground surface.
For loads on the wall, we need to click on one or two points on the wall, depending on the load
type.

Figure 4.23.2: Draw loads tools in DeepEX

After drawing the load on the model area, the Edit Loads dialog appears. The same dialog can be
accessed any time, by double-clicking on a load in the model area. This dialog is customized based
on the selected load type. In all cases, we have to define the exact load location (on the ground
surface – X coordinates and on the wall – Z Coordinates), and the load magnitude.

In case of surface strip surcharges or point loads, we have to select the tool from the Draw Loads
toolbar and click on two (from left to right) or one point on the surface area respectively. In the
dialog that appears we can define the exact load position (X coordinates) and the load magnitude
qz. If the load should be placed below the ground surface to simulate any underground load, then
we should unselect the option “Is Surface” and define the load elevation.

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Figure 4.23.3: Add and edit a surface strip surcharge

In case of strip surcharges or point loads on the wall (load, moment, prescribed displacement),
we have to select the tool from the Draw Loads toolbar and click on two (from top to bottom) or
one point on the wall respectively. In the dialog that appears we can define the exact load
elevation on the wall (Z coordinates) and the load magnitude qx.

Figure 4.23.4: Add and edit a strip surcharge on the wall

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4.24 3D External Loads - Buildings

On the model area of DeepEX we can add 3D loads, using the tools from the Draw Loads options
toolbar in the General tab.

In case of 3D buildings, we have to select the tool click on the desired point on the ground surface,
where the building needs to be installed. In the Basic tab of the Building Wizard, we can define
the basic building parameters (exact building position (X0 and Y0 coordinates), the building
surface dimensions (widths along X and Y axis), the total number of building superstructure and
basement floors and the number of columns per axis).

Figure 4.24.1: Add a building and edit the basic building properties
In the Floors tab, we can define the thickness, material, live and dead loads of each building floor
(superstructure typical floor, basement typical floor and floor beam).

Figure 4.24.2: Edit the building floor dimensions and loads

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All loads in DeepEX are eventually transferred to rectangular footings. While not every footing in
the real world is rectangular, this simplification captures most cases. The Footings tab gives the
option to define the footing dimensions.

Figure 4.24.3: Edit the building footing dimensions

Floor loads are eventually transferred to footings with the help of building columns. Column
shape, dimensions and materials can be defined in the Columns tab.

Figure 3.24.4: Edit the building column properties

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Most buildings have walls. In order to better simulate building loads, DeepEX gives you the option
to simulate different exterior, interior and basement walls. Wall loads are calculated from the wall
area times the density. The open wall space can be used to simulate doors, windows, and other
openings that do not have any dead load.

Figure 4.24.5: Edit the building wall properties

In the Advanced tab, we can select the option to include relief load calculations. By checking this
option, DeepEX removes the effect of soil’s dead load on the surcharge stresses since this soil is
removed in order to create the basement. This is done with elastic solutions by averaging the
vertical stresses on all building corners.

Figure 4.24.6: Option to include relief load calculations

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Building footings can be edited by right clicking on them from the plan view. If a footing is moved
or its dimensions are changed, then the building loads will be changed (if the user decides to do
so). All column loads are calculated based on approximate tributary areas from each supported
floor. At the same time, the building will be saved is a long format since it is not fully rectangular.

Figure 4.24.7: Option to edit each building footing on the pan view area.

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4.25 3D External Loads - Footings

In many cases the effects of three dimensional loads on the wall have to be evaluated. In DeepEX
footings can be used to define three dimensional loads that can vary in magnitude for any desired
stage. DeepEX offers a number of useful alternatives for evaluating the effect of three-
dimensional loading on excavation walls. The theoretical solutions of elasticity are truly applicable
for level surfaces, however, in the absence of any other exact closed form solution many
practicing engineers use these methods for non-level ground surfaces. Caution should be
exercised, and the limitations recognized when dealing with non-level surfaces.
Parameter Description

X The x coordinate of the footing (center)

The y coordinate of the footing (out-of-plane) or 3D coordinate at the
Y
footing center.
Elevation (the elevation is automatically adjusted for surface footings) at
Z
the current surface elevation for each stage.
T Footing thickness (not used for calculations)
Bx Footing width along X axis.
By Footing width along Y axis (out-of-plane, or into screen)
Θ Counter clockwise in-plan footing rotation in degrees.
L Column length (graphical)
Select this option to model the footing as a point load for calculating lateral
surcharges. When selected, the following options are available:
• Use default program equations
With this option the Boussinesq solution is used when the footing is
at the surface, and Mindlin's solution is used when the footing is
below the surface. A Poisson’s ratio of 0.25 is used.
• Use Boussinesq solution (flexible walls, x m loads)
Treat footing as • Use Terzaghi method (considers rigid walls and Hwall)
point load • Use DB33/T1008-2014 solution (uses m=2 for rigid walls)

When this option is not selected, then DeepEX uses the Holl 1940 solution
for rectangular loads as outlined in Poulos & Davis, 1974.
This solution is independent of the Poisson’s ratio. The method is
applicable for loads that are on a level surface, however, in the absence of
a detailed closed form solution for rectangular loads beneath the ground
surface Holl's solution is also used for loads beneath the ground surface.
Select this option if you want to average the load over the maximum
Average load support spacing. With this option DEEP averages the surcharge from (y -
over support maximum support spacing/2) to (y+maximum support spacing/2). The
spacing surcharge is calculated every Dyw increment. A minimum of nMin intervals
are used.

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DX (Not used in this version)

DY (Not used in this version)
nMin Minimum number of intervals along y axis for computing stresses.
Interval for calculating stresses when load is averaged over maximum
Dyw
support length.

Figure 4.25.1: The footing options dialog General tab.

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4.26 Train-Embankment Surcharges

Train embankment surcharges have been added in the 2019 version. The purpose of these
surcharges is to easily simulate train loads according to established procedures described in train
design manuals (i.e. AREMA). A typical train embankment surcharge combination can be seen in
the following Figure:

Figure 4.26.1: Typical train surcharge in DeepEX with two train tracks and an embankment
If we double click on the train (or after we add the train-embankment load), the dialog for
modifying the train loads appears. In this dialog we can modify the number of tracks, the
embankment dimensions (if an embankment exists), and also select the desired analysis
methods. On the tracks we can select how many tracks are used and also their distance from the
train road axis. Some typical train configurations can be selected (such as the Cooper E80)

The surcharge analysis methods are divided in two components, a) How the train loads are
accounted for, and b) how the embankment loads are considered. Railway authority design
manuals generally dictate how surcharges are calculated with the intent being the track load itself.
Depending on who reviews the design the embankment induced surcharge might be treated in
the same or in different ways.

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Figure 4.26.2: Train-embankment configuration dialog

The load analysis methods should typically be selected as the AREMA (Elastic Boussinesq x2). This
method stems from the AREMA design manuals and is in essence the Boussinesq elastic load
multiplied x 2 for unyielding walls. Some railway authorities consider the AREMA loads (Elastic
Boussinesq x) times an additional factor (i.e 1.5 for a total of Elastic Boussinesq x 3). While such
loads are extremely conservative for the excavation design, railway authorities are particularly
concerned with potential track settlements as these can cause service disruptions and service
delays.

When an embankment is used DeepEX give the option for the track load to be first distributed as
a surface strip load at the base elevation. Otherwise, the train track loads are always treated as
surface line load at the roadway elevation.

Train track centerlines can be defined in either relative or absolute x coordinates. With relative
coordinates, the track x coordinate is referenced from the roadway centerline x coordinate.

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4.27 Activating and Deactivating Loads in Stages

The construction stage in which we choose to draw an external load is important in DeepEX. The
load is activated from the installation stage and after. In all previous stages the load appears light-
grey (deactivated).

Figure 4.27.1: 20ft Excavation with rakers – load activated from stage 2
In case we need to activate or deactivate the load in any stage, we can right-click on it and select
the option “Activate” or “Deactivate” respectively.

Figure 4.27.2: Deactivating a load

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4.28 Define Elastic Load Options

The Elastic load options dialog can be accessed from the Draw load toolbar in the General tab of
DeepEX. In this dialog we can define the surcharge modeling method. Figure 4.26.2 presents the
methods implemented in DeepEX.

Figure 4.28.1: Open elastic load options and select a method

Figure 4.28.2: Load pressures methods in DeepEX

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4.29 Load combinations

By pressing on the load combinations option in the Draw Loads drop-down in the General tab of
the software, the Load combinations dialog appears. The same dialog can be accessed from the
Load Combinations option, in the Design tab of the software. Within this dialog an unlimited
number of load combinations can be created. Each load combination can control how the load is
treated when a design approach is applied, in terms of the load character (favorable, unfavorable,
automatic, ignored). This definition can be applied on each load that has been applied to the
model (surcharges, line loads, footings, buildings and other 3D loads).

Figure 4.29.1: Load combinations dialog – Local loads.

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Figure 4.29.2: Load combinations dialog – Footings-Buildings.

Figure 4.29.3: Load combinations dialog – Other 3D loads.

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4.30 Seismic Options in DeepEX

Earth retaining structures such as braced excavations and anchored bulkheads experience
additional forces during seismic events. The true wall behavior is very complex and can rarely be
truly simulated for most earth retaining structures. Instead, engineers have long used widely
acceptable simplified models and methods that allow seismic effects to be added as external
pressure diagrams. These additional seismic pressures can be essentially divided in three parts:
The additional force due to the soil skeleton, the additional hydrodynamic forces and Inertia
effects on the retaining structure.

Unyielding walls (i.e. rigid walls that do not move) experience greater forces compared to yielding
walls. Hence, permissible wall displacement influences the magnitude of the external forces that
a wall might experience during an earthquake. In an elastoplastic analysis (i.e. Nonlinear engine)
an automatic simplified procedure is available that gradually reduces pressures from the
theoretical rigid wall limit as the wall displaces. Further, water in highly permeable soils may be
free to move independently from the soil skeleton, thus adding hydrodynamic pressures on a
wall. Water above the ground surface will also add hydrodynamic effects.

To use Seismic pressures in a construction stage in DeepEX, we have to access the Seismic tab of
the software, select the option “Include Seismic Loads”, define the earthquake accelerations and
select the method for the calculation of seismic pressures.

Figure 4.30.1: Procedure to include seismic loads in a construction stage

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4.30.1 Defining Earthquake Accelerations

The earthquake accelerations in DeepEX can be either defined in the Seismic tab (see Figure
4.30.1), or they can be estimated by the software using the Base Acceleration and some other
parameters (site soil response factor, topographic site response, importance factor). The software
has implemented also methods for the calculation of the wall flexibility response factor R. All
these seismic accelerations estimation tools can be located in the Seismic tab of DeepEX, by
pressing on the button “Full Seismic Options”. In the same dialog, we can define the method for
the calculation of seismic pressures, the water behavior (pervious, impervious, option to ignore
water pressures), and the height up to which the seismic pressures will be taken into
consideration (excavation subgrade or full wall depth).

Figure 4.30.2: Full seismic options and seismic accelerations calculation procedure

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The following table presents the options that are available in the Seismic effects dialog.

Choice to include seismic effects in this stage

Horizontal design acceleration Axdesign
Vertical design acceleration Azdesign
Option to use a building code
Define building code and soil type class (if the previous option is selected)
Define the horizontal base acceleration Axbase
Define the site soil response factor Ss
Define the topographic site response St
Define the Importance factor l
Option to use rigid wall behavior (wood method)
Option to use flexible wall behavior
Option to use a user defined response factor R (if the flexible wall option is selected)
Option define response factor R according to Building code (if the flexible wall option is
selected)
Option define response factor R according to Richards Elms (if the flexible wall option is
selected)
Option define response factor R according to Liao Whitman (if the flexible wall option is
selected)
Define value of R (if user defined R option is selected)
Define the Permanent design displacement Dxperm (after the seismic event)
Define the Vmax (peak velocity)
Define the amax (peak acceleration)
Define the Vmax/amax (option available for estimation)
Option to use Semirigid method for seismic pressures
Option to use Mononobe-Okabe method for seismic pressures
Option to use Richards-Shi method for seismic pressures
Option to use user specified external pressures
Option to use Wood automatic procedure
Option to use Wood manual procedure
Define the user defined seismic pressures for top and bottom
Define the water behavior as Pervious, impervious or automatic
Choice to use actual water pressures for Hydrodynamic effects (instead of γw x hw)
Option to calculate thrust to excavation subgrade
Option to calculate thrust to bottom of the wall
Choice to include wall inertia for non-gravity walls
Choice to apply settings to all stages
Recalculate design accelerations
With Mononobe-Okabe there is the option to define a custom trapezoidal pressure
distribution.

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4.30.2 Selecting a Seismic Pressures Method

DeepEX implements a variety of methods for the calculation of seismic pressures. We can select
these methods either directly from the Seismic tab of DeepEX, or from the Full Seismic options
dialog.

A. Semirigid Pressures Method

In the semirigid approach the seismic pressure is calculated as the product of the total vertical
stress at the bottom of the wall (or excavation subgrade depending on user selection) times a
factor B, which is a multiplier defined by seismic standards. The default value for B in DeepEX is
0.75. The seismic thrust is then included as an external rectangular pressure diagram.

Figure 4.30.3: Seismic pressures – Semirigid method

B. Mononobe-Okabe Method (for frictional soils)

The M-O method is a direct extension of the static coulomb theory that accounts for acceleration
where seismic accelerations are applied to a Coulomb active (or passive) wedge. The software
program always includes seismic pressures calculated with the M-O method as external loads.
The seismic thrust is redistributed according to the Seed & Whitman (1970) recommendation as
an inverse trapezoid with the resultant force acting at 0.6H above the wall bottom (or bottom of
excavation depending on the selected height option).

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Figure 4.30.4: Seismic pressures – Mononobe-Okabe method

C. User-Defined Seismic Pressures

We can define the user pressures manually in the Full Seismic Options dialog. There, we can
define the diagram as a rectangle or trapezoid, by defining the top and bottom elevations and
seismic pressures magnitudes.

Figure 4.30.5: Seismic pressures – User-defined pressure diagram

D. Wood Method (Automatic and Manual)

In this approach the first step is to determine the average lateral thrust of the soil according to
the wood approach. In the limit equilibrium approach the calculated pressures are applied
directly on the wall. Therefore, with this approach the wall is implicitly assumed to be rigid. Within
the Nonlinear analysis these pressures are applied as the initial seismic thrust pressures at zero
additional seismic strain (i.e. rigid wall behavior when the seismic pressures are initially applied).
The initial seismic pressures are then gradually readjusted (typically reduced) as the wall gradually
displaces due to the additional seismic load until equilibrium is reached.

The Wood Manual approach behaves in exactly the same manner as the Automatic Wood Method
with the only difference being that the zero strain seismic pressures are defined directly by the
user.

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Figure 4.30.6: Seismic pressures – Wood Automatic method pressure diagram

4.30.3 Defining Seismic Pressures Depth and Water Behavior

In the Seismic tab of DeepEX we can control options for controlling the height of application for
seismic loads, and also define the Semirigid seismic multiplier B (factor for creating a rectangular
seismic thrust diagram).

Figure 4.30.7: Conventional seismic options.

In the Seismic area of the Seismic tab, we can define the water behavior (Figure 4.28.8) and
seismic pressures (Figure 4.28.9) regarding the Non-linear analysis. The pervious and impervious
options control how the water is treated in a seismic condition. In the previous case
hydrodynamic loading is applied according to the Westeergard solution. If the automatic EC8 limit
option is selected, then the pervious/impervious state is automatically controlled from the
horizontal soil permeability according to the limits specified in Eurocode 8.

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Figure 4.30.8: Water behavior options.

Figure 4.30.9: Elastoplastic seismic pressure options.

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CHAPTER 5: DEFINE ANALYSIS SETTINGS AND DESIGN STANDARDS

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5.1 Analysis Methods

5.1.1 Select an Analysis Method in DeepEX

From the Analysis tab of the software, we can select an analysis method to be applied to the
selected design section. DeepEX software enables us to perform different analysis types on a
model, allowing us to check fast different alternatives and have a better understanding of the
model behavior in different conditions. The following methods are available:

i. Classical Limit Equilibrium Analysis Method – See section 2.4.1

ii. Beam on Elastoplastic Foundations (Non-Linear Analysis) Method – See section 2.4.2

iii. Combination Method (LEM + NL) – See section 2.4.3

iv. Finite Element Analysis Method – See section 2.4.4

v. Combination Method (LEM + FEM) – See section 2.4.5

Figure 5.1.1: Analysis options

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5.1.2. Defining the Mesh Analysis Options (FEM Analysis)

In the Analysis tab of the software, we can select to edit the mesh analysis options for the Finite
Element Method:

Figure 5.1.2: DeepEX – Define Mesh Analysis Options

Figure 5.1.3: Edit Mesh Properties Dialog

In the dialog that appears (see Image above), the following options are available:

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Level of Mesh

This option defines the level of refinement of the generated mesh (size of finite elements on the
model area). The level of mesh can be Coarse, Medium or Fine. This option affects the finite
element convergence and accuracy of results. A Fine Mesh would produce more accurate results,
but the analysis takes longer.

Option to Refine stage surfaces with additional points

With this option selected, further mesh refinement is imposed on the soil layer boundaries and
soil body surface of each stage. The length variable DX corresponds to the maximum finite
element dimension allowed on the aforementioned locations.

Non Linear Solver

With this option the user can select the preferred algorithm for the solution of the algebraic non-
linear equation system formed at each stage (or sub-step of stage) by the fem method. When
exponential constitutive laws are used, the option of Newton with line-search is selected by
default. The available options are:

• Newton: This option corresponds to the traditional Newton-Raphson method.

• Newton with Linesearch: This option corresponds to the Newton-Raphson method where
the solution of each step is appropriately scaled by a line-search approach in accordance
to the Wolfe conditions.
• Modified Newton: This option follows a similar approach to the Newton-Raphson method
with the only difference of using the elastic stiffness matrix instead of the tangent stiffness
matrix for the calculation of the displacement increment.

Hardening Soil Model Solution

This option defines the Hyperbolic Hardening model that will be used in FEM. For more
information, see Section 5 below. The following options are available.

Approximate Solution – This option makes the analysis faster and easier to converge

Exact Theoretical – This option makes the analysis more accurate but slower and more difficult to
converge

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5.1.3 Defining Convergence Options (FEM Analysis)

In the Analysis tab of the software, we can select to edit the stage analysis options for the Finite
Element Method:

Figure 5.1.4: DeepEX – Define Analysis Convergence Options

Figure 5.1.5: Edit Stage Convergence Options Dialog

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In the dialog that appears (see Image above), the following options are available:

Option to Enable/Disable arc length control

This option enables the Crisfield’s Formulation of the Arc-length method for the solution of the
nonlinear equation system. The use of the arc-length method could provide better convergence
in problems with snapping behavior (work softening behavior of the constitutive laws).

Option to define a user-defined convergence tolerance

By selecting this option, we can define a custom convergence to our model analysis. If not
selected, the software will use the default tolerance, which is 3%. Any value more than 3% should
be used with caution.

Option to Use or Ignore tension cutoff in all stages

This option, when selected, imposes a tension cut-off on all soil constitutive laws. (i.e. principal
stresses are always in compression).

Define the Initial substep increment and the substep relative tolerance

This option enables the use of sub-stepping in the solution of each stage. More specifically, the
unbalanced forces calculated upon the initiation of each stage, are proportionally eliminated in
multiple steps. This option aids on the easier convergence of a stage, as each sub-step converges
on the equilibrium path and scenarios of divergence from the path are avoided. The user can
select the initial step increment, and when necessary the software will further decrease it.
Additionally, the user can select the normalized unbalanced force tolerance for each sub-step.
The When exponential constitutive laws are used, this option is selected by default.

5.2 Define Excavation Side

DeepEX software decides automatically which is the excavation side on each model, depending
on the surface elevations and user actions in each construction stage. In some rare cases, we
might need to interfere and define the excavation side manually. The excavation side can be
defined in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

Figure 5.2.1: Manually define excavation side

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5.3 Option to Link Design Sections

In any DeepEX software file, we can create an unlimited number of design sections, so we can
simulate different excavation wall locations, or perform fast analysis comparisons (See section
3.3). The generated design sections can be either totally independent, or linked to a selected
design section. A design section can be linked and unlinked any time from the Analysis tab of
DeepEX. By pressing the “Link option” button, we can choose to link the selected design section
to any other. There we can find the option to link or not link the analysis type.

Figure 5.3.1: Link design section options in DeepEX

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5.4 Define a Design Approach/Geotechnical Design Standard

In the default DeepEX project file, no specific design standard is selected. The default option is a
service limit state, where all partial safety factors have the value 1, and we can define in the
Design tab of DeepEX some factors applied on the geotechnical and structural capacities.

Figure 5.4.1: User defined structural and geotechnical safety factors

DeepEX implements all load combinations of several international geotechnical design standards
(AASHTO LRFD, CALTRANS LRFD, PENN DOT AASHTO, EUROCODE 7, DM_08 (Italian), DIN 1054
(German), XP P 94 (French), BS 1997 (British) and CN (Chinese)). We can quickly select a standard
and apply a load combination on any design section, or generate new design sections
automatically, each one using a load combination of a specific standard, simulating at once all
load combinations. Also, we can create User Defined combinations, allowing the use of DeepEX
in countries that are using codes we might have not yet implemented in the software. All these
options are available in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

Figure 5.4.2: Geotechnical design standards in the Analysis tab

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5.4.1 Selecting a Load Combination of a Specific Standard

By pressing on the button “Single” in the Analysis tab of DeepEX, we can select a design standard
and a specific load combination of the selected standard. By accepting the change, the
assumption table on the right side of the screen expands, presenting all partial safety factors that
are used according to the selected combination.

Figure 5.4.3: Apply a load combination of a specific standard

5.4.2 Generating all Load Combinations of a Selected Standard

By pressing on the arrow next to the button “Mult.” in the Analysis tab of DeepEX, we can select
to use all load combinations according to a specific standard. In this case, DeepEX will create
automatically new design sections linked and identical with the selected section, each one using
a load combination of the selected standard.

Figure 5.4.4: Use all load combinations of a specific standard

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Generating Custom Load Combinations

By pressing on the button “Mult.” in the Analysis tab of DeepEX, we can select to define a custom
load combination, define all partial safety factors and select to add the combination to the project
database. Next, by accessing the arrow next to the button “Single”, we can select the option “User
Defined Approach”.

Figure 5.4.5: Define a custom load combination

Figure 5.4.6: Option to use a custom load combination

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5.5 Change Clay Behavior through Stages

For each clay soil layer, we can define the clay behavior (drained or undrained) in the Edit soils
dialog that can be accessed from the General tab of DeepEX (see section 3.2). According to the
selected behavior, we should define the undrained (undrained shear strength) or drained (drained
shear strength, friction angle) soil properties.

In any construction stage, we can select to change the clay behavior from the default to
something else (i.e. from default to drained or undrained). This option allows us to check the
model both for short term undrained and for long term drained conditions.

The option to change clay behavior can be located in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

Figure 5.5.1: Options to change clay behavior

This action will change the behavior of all clays used in the model. If we need to change the clay
behavior or a specific clay (or some clays but not all), then we can use a soil change command
(see section 3.3).

Figure 5.5.2: Change clay behavior with soil change commands

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5.6 Select Water Pressures Method

The software offers the following options for modeling groundwater:

Hydrostatic: Applicable for both conventional and elastoplastic analysis. In ELP, hydrostatic
conditions are modeled by extending the “wall lining” effect to 100 times the wall length below
the wall bottom.

Simplified flow: Applicable for both conventional and elastoplastic analysis. This is a simplified
1D flow around the wall. In the NL analysis mode, the traditional NL water flow option is
employed.

Full Flow Net analysis: Applicable for both conventional and elastoplastic analysis. Water
pressures are determined by performing a 2D finite difference flow analysis. In NONLINEAR, water
pressures are then added by the UTAB command. The flownet analysis does not account for a
drop in the phreatic line.

User pressures: Applicable for both conventional and NL analysis. Water pressures defined by the
user are assumed. In the nonlinear analysis, water pressures are added by the UTAB command.

The option to select a water pressures method can be located in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

Figure 5.6.1: Select a water pressures method

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5.7 Define Thrust Options (Earth Coefficients Ka and Kp)

DeepEX implements several theories and methods for the earth coefficient calculations in LEM
analysis. The thrust options can be defined in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

5.7.1 Automatic Mode (Recommended Option)

When the automatic mode is selected, DeepEX chooses the best theory methods for the
calculations of Ka and Kp values (Coulomb, Rankine, Caquot-Kerisel, Lancellota), taking into
consideration the project parameters (wall friction, surface slope, seismic effects).

The automatic mode is recommended for most uses in DeepEX.

Figure 5.7.1: Automatic thrust calculations mode

Horizontal Wall Friction Seismic Effects
Inclined Surface
Surface Considered Applied

Active
Rankine Coulomb Coulomb No Effect
Coefficient Ka

Passive
Rankine Coulomb Caquot-Kerisel Lancelotta
Coefficient Kp

Figure 5.7.2: Automatic Method Selection in DeepEX

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5.7.2 User Mode – User-Defined Methods

Sometimes we wish to specify different wall friction values for each construction stage. In this
case, we can turn the thrust options to user mode and specify the method that will be used for
the calculations of earth coefficients in each stage.

Figure 5.7.3: User thrust calculations mode

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5.7.3 Manual Mode

In some occasions the model could have complex sliding surfaces that may not be directly
captured by the software automatic procedure. In this case we can select the manual mode for
the earth coefficient calculations. When this option is selected, we have to access the Soil Types
dialog from the General tab of DeepEX and define the Ka and Kp values for each soil manually in
the Thrust tab that appears. In order to define the Ka and Kp values manually, the checkbox
“Auoestimate Ka-Kp” in the Edit soil types dialog has to be unselected.

In order to use the manual mode, you need to have totally horizontal stratigraphy on the model
area (no inclined custom layers or slope surfaces). Finally, this option can be used only in Non-
Linear Analysis.

Figure 5.7.4: Manual thrust mode

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5.8 Use/Edit Wall Friction

In DeepEX, the default option is to not use a wall friction. This option is conservative and in certain
cases it is recommended to use some wall friction as a percentage of soil friction (i.e. 2/3 or 66%
of soil phi etc.). In DeepEX, we can select to apply wall friction to the model, either as a percentage
of the soil friction, or as an absolute value. There is also an option to define different wall friction
values on the two wall sides (driving and resisting). The wall friction can be defined individually
for each wall used in the model.

Figure 5.8.1: Options to add wall friction

Figure 5.8.2: Option to define different wall friction on each wall side

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5.9 Driving Pressures Methods (LEM Analysis)

When we select to perform LEM analysis, DeepEX uses Active pressures by default for all
construction stages. Although, DeepEX implements several other pressure methods (At-rest,
FHWA Apparent, Peck Apparent, Custom Trapezoidal, Two-Step rectangular, Adaptive Apparent,
WMATA manual, User-defined pressures and more).

5.9.1 Selecting a Driving Side Pressures Method

We can define the method that will be used in each construction stage from the Analysis tab of
DeepEX.

Figure 5.9.1: Select a method for the calculation of soil driving pressures

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5.9.2 Defining Pressure Method Options

In some methods, we can define some additional parameters. Please contact us and request a
copy of our Theory manual for further information about methods and options.

Figure 5.9.2: Active pressure diagram

Figure 5.9.3: Active x Load Factor options and pressure diagram

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Figure 5.9.4: FHWA Apparent options and pressure diagram

Figure 5.9.5: Custom Trapezoidal options and pressure diagram

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Figure 5.9.6: Two Step Rectangular options and pressure diagram

Figure 5.9.7: Adaptive Apparent options and pressure diagram

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5.9.8 Defining User Pressures

We can select the option User pressures and define the pressure diagram manually, by defining
elevations and pressure values.

Figure 5.9.8: Defining user active pressures on left wall

5.9.9 Defining Minimum Pressures

In some cases, we can select to define minimum pressures to the model. The minimum pressure
options can be accessed in the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

Figure 5.9.9: Option to define minimum pressures

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5.9.10 Wedge Analysis Options

Automatic search method options: This option launches a dialog for controlling how the program
calculates active and passive thrusts when irregular ground surfaces are encountered. The
available options are to either

a) Perform a Culman’s method of analysis where the program computes active and
passive thrusts from a wedge search analysis, or
b) Let the program perform an automatic search analysis where the search limits are
adjusted based on user defined options.

Figure 5.9.10: Options for wedge search analysis.

The following table presents the options that are available in the wedge analysis options dialog:

Choice to use active wedges for the two walls

Choice to use passive wedges for the two walls
Choice to optimize wedge analysis
Define the minimum and maximum active and passive wedge
search limits. These limits are used when the Optimize wedge
analysis option is selected.

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Figure 5.9.11: Options for automatic search with non-linear surfaces.

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5.9.11 Driving Pressures Below Excavation

By clicking on the button , we can choose how lateral soil pressures below
the excavation are calculated on the driving side. In general, it is recommended to keep the
Normal option selected. The = 0 pressures option will apply zero earth pressures below the
excavation, while the Ka-Active option forces active earth pressures below excavation. There is
also an option to define soil pressures with a starting pressure and active pressure slopes above
and below the water table:

Figure 5.9.12: Options for driving soil pressures below grade

Figure 5.9.13: User defined active pressure and pressure slopes below grade

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5.10 Resist Pressures Methods (LEM Analysis)

When we select to perform LEM analysis, DeepEX uses Passive pressures by default for all
construction stages on resisting side. Although, DeepEX implements other pressure methods (At-
rest, At-rest x multiplier, Passive pressures/FS, User-defined).

5.10.1 Select a Resist Pressures Method

We can define the method that will be used in each construction stage from the Analysis tab of
DeepEX.

Figure 5.10.1: Select a method for the calculation of soil resisting pressures
The following options are available:

1: Use passive pressures at the resisting side

2: Set resisting earth pressures from passive divided by a safety factor.
3: Set resisting pressures as at-rest pressures
4: Set resisting pressures as at-rest pressures times a multiplier
5: Define passive pressures with a starting passive pressure and user
defined pressure slopes below and above the water table.
6: Option to include-edit a maximum passive pressure limit
7: Option to ignore resisting pressures for a specified depth below the
excavation subgrade
8: Option to assume 3D effects for passive pressures
9: Option to adjust the impact loads for deadman walls
10: Option to adjust impact loads for stepped walls

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Figure 5.10.2: Passive pressures divided by a safety factor

User defined pressures can be defined by selecting the “User defined passive pressures option”,

and then clicking inside the button:

Figure 5.10.3: User defined passive pressures dialog

To ignore passive pressures for a specified depth below the excavation:

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Figure 5.10.4: Ignoring passive soil pressures below excavation

5.10.2 Adjust Impact Loads (Deadman and Stepped Walls)

In wall systems like deadman or stepped walls, a part of the passive pressures of the back wall is
applied on the front wall active pressures as an additional impact load. This effect is capcured in
both Limit Equilibrium Analysis and the combination method (Limit Equilibrium+Non-Linear). This
impact load is affected by the back wall depth and by the distance between the back and the
front wall.

In DeepEX, if we can adjust the impact load factor, taking into consideration the passive resistance
that is developed on the back wall (Figure 5.10.5). In case of Stepped walls, we can also select the
impact load calculation method (Figure 5.10.6).

Figure 5.10.5: Adjust the Impact Load Factor

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Figure 5.10.6: Impact Load Calculation Methods

5.11 Limit equilibrium methods for Cantilever Excavations

In the Analysis tab of DeepEX area we can choose the method for analyzing cantilever excavations.
This option applies also for the cantilever construction stage when we design supported walls.

Figure 5.11.1: Cantilever methods

The following methods are available in DeepEX:
a) Free Earth Method
b) Fixed Earth Method
Rowe’s Moment Reduction Method: This method can be applied to cantilever walls in only clay
or frictional conditions. It is used to reduce free earth moments and it should be used in caution.

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5.12 Beam Analysis Methods (LEM Analysis)

DeepEX implements a variety of beam analysis methods for the calculation of wall moment and
shear diagrams for models with multiple support levels. We can select a beam analysis method
when the LEM analysis is selected, from the Analysis tab of DeepEX.

Figure 5.12.1: Select a beam analysis method for models with multiple support levels
Each of the method here offers simplistic means of analyzing a braced wall, and the user
should be aware of the inherent limitations with each method (as limit-equilibrium ignores
stage interaction effects, etc.). The available analysis methods are:

c) Blum’s method: Blum’s method is a very popular analysis method in the East coast, as well
as in Germany. The method involves assuming hinges at support locations as well as at the
point of zero net loading below the excavation subgrade.
d) FHWA simple span method: The method is described in FHWA GEC4. It assumes simple
span bending between supports (with the exception of the top brace, where a continuous
beam is assumed to the 2nd bracing level or to the excavation subgrade). The method
assumes a hinge at the excavation subgrade.
e) Simple span with negative moments: Method is similar to FHWA described in b), but a hinge
is assumed below the excavation at the point of zero net loading (similar to Blum’s method.)
The program also offers a method to reduce maximum moments by introducing a negative
moment as a percent of the maximum positive span moments.
f) California Trenching and Shoring Manual 2011: This method is described in the CALTRANS
Trenching and Shoring manual (2011) and is very popular in California. The method is similar
to FHWA but fixity below the excavation is assumed at a point where rotational moments

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about the lowest bracing level are equal to zero (considering loads below the lowest support
only). As a result, the method always computes a zero shear and zero moment at the point
of assumed fixity. The program offers the option to consider reductions in the moments by
including a negative moment percentage. Further options are available by selecting
“Additional options for California Trenching Manual approach”:

Figure 5.12.2: Options for Caltrans shoring manual analysis.

CALTRANS offers methods for producing smaller cantilever displacements by assuming a
virtual fixity point well above the point of moment equilibrium. While this assumption may
produce more realistic cantilever wall displacements it has a very limited theoretical basis.
In reality, this option really adjusts results to account for cases where design soil properties
are very conservative (i.e. ignoring effective cohesion, etc.).

CALTRANS also adjusts wall displacements for multiple bracing levels below the lowest
support. While little guidance is given, results consistent with what is presented in the
manual appear to be produced when the negative displacement is assumed at 15% of the
simple span displacement.
Consistent with California practice, some engineers choose to apply a load increase on the
topmost support brace, according to DM 7.2, pg. 103 which postulates a 15% increase in
computed brace reactions.

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5.13 Advanced Analysis Settings – Tension Gaps and Arching Effects

- Advanced options: By pressing the button , we can find some advanced choices
regarding at-rest pressures and tension gap effects for slave elements.

Figure 5.13.1: Advanced options.

Adjust Ko with friction Adjust Ko when φ’ changes due to a material change (Eurocode 7)
Allow tension gaps to form Allows the formation of tension gaps between master and slave
for slave elements nodes when slave elements have been defined (supports or wall
elements). This option can be used when liner walls have to be
modeled

- Analysis Arching: The split button is used to define the arching for non-linear
analysis. The drop-down button provides two options:
• Option to consider arching in non-linear analysis
• Options to ignore arching in non-linear analysis
By pressing on the button, the arching dialog appears

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Figure 5.13.2: Soil arching options for NL analysis dialog.

The following options are available:

• Option to Edit advanced options

• Option to reset parameters
• Define the maximum arching reduction ratio between excavation and support
• Define ratio of height at zero arching change
• Define change of stress ratio at support
• Define span ratio above support with zero arching
• Define negative pressure arching between supports
• Option to automatically adjust arching stress method
• Option to use initial Ka stresses at lowest support to adjust arching pressures

For arching options, we recommend that the software default values should be used.

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5.14 Select Wall Embedment Safety Factors

Support walls must be embedded sufficiently to prevent toe stability failure. DeepEX uses classical
methods in determining the toe embedment depth for a safety factor of 1.0 and the available
safety factor. We can select which wall embedment safety factors should be calculated in each
model from the Stability+ tab.

Figure 4.11.1: Stability+ tab – Select wall embedment safety factors

Passive Resistance Safety Factor (Conventional Analysis):

Rotational Safety Factor (Conventional Analysis):

Length based (Conventional Analysis):

Mobilized passive resistance (NONLINEAR):

The mobilized passive resistance is currently calculated with conventional analysis methods
(that can include the effects of non-linear ground surface).

- B.E.F. Stability: This option appears when the Non-Linear analysis method is selected. In this
area we can use a Zcut command in the non-linear analysis. This command deactivates all
wall nodes below this elevation.

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5.15 Basal Stability FS and Wall Displacements

The basal stability safety factor and the wall displacements estimation methods can be reviewed
in the Stability+ tab of DeepEX. The software by default uses the Terzhaghi equations to calculate
the basal stability safety factor index, and the Clough method to estimate the wall displacements
in each construction stage independently. The option to perform both calculations is selected by
default in DeepEX, though we can select not to perform either if needed.

Figure 5.15.1: Basal stability and Clough options.

Figure 5.15.2: Stability+ tab – Basal stability and wall displacements options

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DeepEX uses the Terzhaghi approach to calculate the basal stability safety factor.

Table 5.15.3: Terzhaghi equations for basal stability safety factor

When the classical Limit Equilibrium Analysis method is selected, DeepEX can estimate the wall
horizontal displacements using the Clough method.

Figure 5.15.4: Basal stability and Clough options dialog.

In this form we can choose to calculate the basal stability FS, and to calculate the maximum
horizontal wall displacements with Clough method.

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5.16 Surface Settlements Estimation

From the Stability+ tab of DeepEX, we can access the Surface Settlements button, where we can
define the parameters for the surface settlements calculations.

For LEM analysis, the original method uses the Clough calculated displacements with some
modification factors. These modification factors can be enabled by selecting the “Use
modifications for Clough” option.

Figure 5.16.1: The surface settlement options.

When a non-linear solution is performed (beam on elastic foundations), DeepEX offers the ability
to estimate surface settlements directly from computed wall displacements. In addition, DeepEX
will add a component for toe translation to the concave settlement. This additional volume is
estimated as a triangle by extrapolating a line from the maximum displacement above the wall
toe to the displacement at the wall base. The following table provides detailed information and
recommendations about using this method.

Figure 5.16.2: Stability+ tab – Surface settlement calculation options

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The following table presents the parameters that we can define in this dialog:

Define the Sprandel length Ds in terms of the excavation height

Define the concave maximum settlement Dcmin
Inflection point constant
Settlement points (where settlement is calculated)
Cantilever Avs/Ahs (vertical Sprandel volume to horizontal displaced Sprandel volume)
Supports remain Av/Ah (ratio of vertical to horizontal volume)
Supports remove Av/Ah (ratio of vertical to horizontal volume when the supports are
removed)
Option to use Clough method in BEF analysis. This option forces the program to calculate the
horizontal displacement volume with the Clough method.

5.17 Building Damage Assessment Settings (Optional Module)

DeepEX includes an additional optional module for the damage assessment of surrounding
buildings. The module estimates potential damage based on anticipated wall displacements and
structural type. Various semi-empirical methods are incorporated based on horizontal
movement, surface settlement, and angular distortion.

By pressing the button , the Building damage calculation options dialog appears. In this
dialog user can define the analysis method used for the damage assessment, as well as some
analysis parameters.

Figure 5.17.1: The building damage assessment options dialog.

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5.18 Wall Axial Loads and Axial Pile Capacity Options

In DeepEX, we can define a vertical load or an inclined load on the wall. In that case, we have to
select the option “Include axial loads on walls” in the Design tab of DeepEX, so the wall axial
diagram is produced and the axial wall capacity is calculated. In the Stability+ tab of DeepEX we
can select the option “Calculate axial geotechnical capacity”, select the pile installation method
and edit the pile calculation settings. This last option is used mostly in the additional optional
module Pile Supported Abutments, in order to calculate the bearing capacity of the supporting
foundation piles.

5.18.1 Adding an Axial Load on a Wall (Vertical or Inclined)

From the Draw Loads toolbar in the General ab of DeepEX, we can draw on the model area a
linear load on the wall (access the toolbar, select the tool, click on the wall and edit the load
properties). In the dialog that appears, we can define the load position (elevation on the wall)
and the load magnitudes Px (horizontal load component) and Pz (vertical load component).

Figure 5.18.1: Add and edit a vertical load on the top of the wall

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Figure 5.18.2: Add and edit an inclined load on the wall

Figure 5.18.3: Option to include axial loads on walls

Figure 5.18.4: DeepEX results – Axial wall diagram

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5.18.2 Defining Axial Geotechnical Capacity Parameters

In the Stability+ tab of DeepEX, we can select to include in the calculations the axial geotechnical
capacity of piles. We have to select the installation method (drilled, driven, caissons, CFA piles,
drilled-in-displacement piles), and we can also define the pile calculation settings (geotechnical
axial capacity safety factors, tip resistance options, skin friction options and cohesional shear
resistance multipliers and adhesion factors).

Figure 5.18.5: Pile installation methods and calculation settings

Item Description
Allowable safety factor FSall This factor is used to divide the ultimate
geotechnical pile capacity and obtain the
design service capacity.
Earthquake safety factor FSeq Safety factor applied when seismic conditions
are encountered.
End bearing safety factor FSbear Safety factor applied on ultimate end bearing
capacity.
Skin friction percentage for TENSION = Tensile geotechnical resistance/Skin friction
compression resistance
Option to include end bearing (for If this option is selected, then pile end bearing
compression piles) will be included in the calculations.

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Option to plug in open pipes (uses full If this option is selected, then open pipe piles
area) will be considered as plugged for end bearing
capacity calculations.
Option to use pile head for H-Beams In concreted H type pile walls, this option
forces the bearing area to always be the H
beam section area.
Option to limit skin friction (limiting This option turns on the limiting skin friction
depth) theory approach for pile capacity. In this
approach, a limiting skin friction is reached at
a specified depth in terms of the pile size.
Please note that while conservative, according
to many researchers this theory has been
proven wrong.
Skin friction percentage for steel The wall frictional skin resistance for walls
with steel in contact with soil is controlled
from this percentage. Basically, this is δ/Soil φ
(%)
Item Description
Skin friction percentage for concrete The wall frictional skin resistance for walls
with concrete in contact with soil is controlled
from this percentage. Basically, this is δ/Soil φ
(%)
Option to multiply frictional resistance by The pile resistance obtained by effective soil
a specific multiplier friction can be multiplied by a factor. This
factor may account installation such as
pressure grouting or loosening effects.
Option to use soil bonds for capacity If this option is selected, then the skin friction
calculations when the wall type permits for concreted walls from the soil dialog will be
used when the wall type permits (walls that
have concrete in contact with soil).
Option to multiply cohesional resistance The pile resistance obtained by adhesion
by a specific multiplier (cohesive soil component) can be multiplied
by a factor. This factor may account
installation such as pressure grouting or
loosening effects.
Option to use adhesion factors With this option the soil-pile adhesion due to
soil cohesion can be calculated from a trilinear
approach where soils with greater c' or Su
tend to provide smaller adhesion.

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5.19 Define Structural Codes - Steel and Concrete Structural Design

DeepEX software has implemented a series of structural codes for the structural design of all
project members, depending on the member structural section type (reinforced concrete –
construction steel, timber (wood)).

In the Design tab of DeepEX, we can select the structural codes for concrete, steel and timber
design, as well as, define an additional safety factor applied on calculated capacities, according
to the code type (allowable or LRFD design). These options appear when we press on the button
CODE.

Figure 5.19.1: Select structural design codes for concrete, steel and timber
DeepEX: Concrete Codes DeepEX: Steel Codes DeepEX: Timber Codes
ACI 318-11 ASD 1989 (Allowable) Service – a=0.36
Eurocode 2 2004 (General) LRFD 13th Edition 2005 AASHTO LRFD 6th Edition
Eurocode 2 – National Annexes NTC 2008
ANSI/AISC 360-2010
Eurocode 8 – National Annexes AISC 360-2010 Allowable
ANSI/AISC 360-2016
AS 3600-2009 (Australia, New AISC 360-2016 Allowable
Zealand Eurocode 3 2005 (General)
CN (China) Eurocode 3 2005 – National
Annexes
BS 5950-1 2000 (Britain)
AS/NZS 4100
CN (China)

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Selecting a Code and Defining a Partial Safety Factor

DeepEX will use the selected structural code to calculate the member structural capacity. Next, it
will compare the calculated capacity with the calculated force on the member from the model
analysis, calculating the member structural ratio.

In some cases, the calculated capacities can be reduced by a factor that is either dictated by the
selected structural standard (Allowable design), or defined by the user (i.e. LRFB design). If a
geotechnical standard is applied (see chapter 4.2) like AASHTO LRFD or Eurocode, the software
will follow an ultimate design code as recommended by the standard and the calculated capacity
will be reduced automatically by the standard recommendations.

The following options are available:

A. Select an Allowable Stress Design standard:

This includes a safety factor according to the standard, which will be applied to the calculated
capacities.

B. Select an LRFD structural standard and NO geotechnical code combination

In that case, you can assign in the Design tab of DeepEX a user defined safety factor that will be
applied on calculated structural capacities

Figure 5.19.2: Define a safety factor applied on calculated structural capacities

C. Select an LRFD structural standard and a geotechnical code combination

In that case, DeepEX will do an ultimate design, using partial factors on loads, no additional user-
defined factor is needed in this case.

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5.20 Steel Section Databases and General Settings

By clicking on the button in the Design tab of DeepEX, we can define which standards to
be used in selecting steel members and reinforcement bars.

Figure 5.20.1: Steel member code options.

In DeepEX, the following options are available:

All sizes
US sizes
European sizes
Universal beam system (UK)
South Korean sizes
Chinese standards
Australian sizes
Canadian sizes (AISC Metric)

- General settings: In the Design tab of DeepEX we can select the General Settings option,
which allows us to select some default settings that are typical in a specific country (units,
design codes, safety factors, size standards, etc.).

Figure 2.20.2: General settings.

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5.21 Wall and Tiebacks Safety Factors

- Wall STR Safety: In the Wall STR Safety area of the Design tab of DeepEX we can define the
wall structural Factor of Safety. This factor is used to divide the yield wall capacity and
produce the design wall capacity.

Figure 2.9.5: Wall STR safety options.

- Tiebacks Safety: In this area we can define the geotechnical Factor of Safety used for
calculating the design pullout capacity of a tieback. By selecting the Custom STR option, the
allowable stress factor for tieback steel can be manually defined for all tiebacks in this design
section (Capacity = factor x Asteel x Fy). Please note that certain design codes will overwrite
this setting (EC7, DM08 etc.).

Figure 2.9.6: Tieback safety options.

5.22 Automatic Wall Depth Optimization (LEM Analysis Only)

When the Limit Equilibrium Analysis Method (LEM) is selected, the option “Optimize wall
embedment for safety factors” appears in the Design tab of DeepEX. By selecting this option, we
can define the required safety factors for the cantilever stage and the stages with supports, as
well as, the increment DL that will be used for the wall embedment optimization. The software
will start increasing the wall depth from the excavation depth using the defined increment and
calculate all wall embedment safety factors (passive, rotational and length – see section 5.14) for
each step. DeepEX will stop the analysis at the point where all calculated factors are above the
defined limits and return that depth.

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Figure 5.22.1: Automatic wall depth optimization (LEM analysis only)

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CHAPTER 6: ANALYSIS RESULTS – MODEL OPTIMIZATION - REPORTS

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6.1 Results: Analysis and Checking Summary Table

6.1 Analysis and Checking Summary Table – All Design Sections

The Analysis and Checking summary table appears on the DeepEX main screen, exactly after the
model calculation. This table originally presents the most critical results among all stages for each
design section. With the summary table, we can see on a glance if the model converged, and if
there is any issue with any structural item by reviewing fast the most critical results and structural
rations for walls and supports, as well as the wall embedment safety factors.

Figure 6.1.1: Analysis and checking summary table – All design sections
If any partial result is above the limits, the result box will be read, and the first box for the specific
design section “Calculation Succeeded” will be read as well, letting us know that at least one of
the structural items (walls – supports) fail structurally or geotechnically, or the wall embedment
is not sufficient. At any point, as long as the model is calculated, we can select to load the analysis
and checking summary table from the Report tab of DeepEX.

Figure 6.1.2: Open analysis and checking summary table – All design sections

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6.1.2 Analysis and Checking Summary Table – One Design Section

In the Analysis and Checking summary table, we can select the option “One Design Section” from
the menu on the left side of the dialog. There we open and review the most critical results of each
construction stage for a selected design section. This way we can locate the most critical stage
and we can review in which stages any failure or issue might occur.

Figure 6.1.3: Analysis and checking summary table – All design sections
In the menu on the left side of the dialog we can load a series of partial results that are not
presented in the extended summary table (support force and stresses vs stage, lagging results,
cost estimation results, wale beam results etc.).

Figure 6.1.4: Analysis and checking summary table – Partial results

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6.2 Graphical Results on Model Area

As soon as the analysis is completed, we can review all calculated results in graphs on the model
area for each construction stage. Reviewing the graphical results for each stage is significant for
the model optimization. We can select which results to be presented in the Results tab of DeepEX.

The following table presents all available options, when we run the Limit Equilibrium and the Non-
Linear Analysis methods:

Icon Description
Wall embedment Safety Factors
Global Slope Stability Factor of Safety
Global Slope Factor of Safety Contours
Results for slope stability slices
Show all slope stability results (when intermediate surfaces are stored)
Show interslice forces and other forces for slope stability analysis:

Last option shows critical sliding surfaces for determining Ka and Kp from
automatic search methods.

Wall bending moment

Wall shear
Wall Axial force
Wall Displacement (horizontal)
Surface settlements
Support reactions
Combined capacity ratio (Moment and Axial force combined check)
Moment capacity ratio = Actual moment/Design wall moment capacity
≤ 1.0 Good
Shear capacity ratio = Actual shear/Design wall shear capacity
≤ 1.0 Good
Structural capacity ratios for supports = Actual load/design capacity
Wall moment capacity

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Wall shear capacity

Effective horizontal soil pressure
Total vertical stress
Effective vertical stress
Net total wall pressures
Wall surcharge
Seismic pressures
Net water pressure
Water pressure on walls
Hydraulic gradient
Minimum – Maximum values

Local result envelopes: shows envelopes of results for current design section
Global envelope: shows envelopes of results for all linked design sections

Result tables: Launches a results table

Water pressure shadings (when a flow net analysis has been performed)
Water head shadings (when a flow net analysis has been performed)
Water head grid (when a flow net analysis has been performed)
Hydraulic safety factor (when a flow net analysis has been performed)
Total vertical stress shadings (when a flow net analysis has been performed)
Effective vertical stress shadings (when a flow net analysis has been
performed)
Project cost
Show shear strength for elastoplastic analysis
Hide results for wall elements (show results only for main walls)
Open result diagrams in a separate dialog

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6.2.1 Graphical Wall Results

Figure 6.2.1: Graphical results – Wall moment and shear diagrams

Figure 6.2.2: Graphical results – Wall axial diagram and structural ratios

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Figure 6.2.3: Graphical results – Wall displacement diagram and surface settlements

6.2.2 Graphical Support Results

Figure 6.2.4: Graphical results – Support reactions and ratios

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6.2.3 Reviewing Graphical Soil Pressures Diagrams

Figure 6.2.5: Graphical results – Soil horizontal, total vertical and effective vertical stresses

6.2.4 Graphical Surcharge and Seismic Pressures Diagrams

Figure 6.2.6: Graphical results – Surcharge and seismic pressures diagrams

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6.2.5 Reviewing Graphical Water Pressures Diagrams

Figure 6.2.7: Graphical results – Water pressures: (a): Simplified flow, (b): Hydrostatic,
(c): 2D flownet pressures, (d): 2D flownet shadings

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6.2.6 Reviewing Graphical Net Pressures Diagram

The net pressures diagram is the final diagram that is used in the wall design. The net pressures
diagram includes all pressures that are acting on the wall horizontally in each stage (soil horizontal
pressures, water pressures, surcharge pressures, seismic pressures).

Figure 6.2.8: Net pressures calculation procedure

Figure 6.2.9: Graphical results – Net pressures diagram

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6.2.7 Editing Diagram Values (Min-Max, Envelopes)

In the Results tab of DeepEX, we can define which values should be presented on the diagrams.
The option “Min Max Vals” toggles the value presentation on the graphs on and off. The option
“Show Env.” presents next to every value on the diagrams the most critical value of the same item
among all stages of the examined design section. The option “Global Env.” Presents next to every
value on the diagrams the most critical value of the same item among all stages of all calculated
linked design sections.

Figure 6.2.10: Show/Hide values on graphs

Figure 6.2.11: Show/Hide local and global result envelops

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6.2.8 Reviewing Results Tables and Graphs

In the Results tab of DeepEX (after the analysis is completed), we can select the options “Tables”
and “Diagrams”. The option “Tables” opens a table dialog that includes extensive results for each
node of the wall in each construction stage, The option “Diagrams” opens a new dialog that
presents all result graphs (moments, shear stresses, axial forces etc.), presenting the graph for
each construction stage along with the graph envelopes.

Figure 6.2.12: Detailed result tables

Figure 6.2.13: Result diagrams

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6.2.9 Reviewing The Wall Embedment Results

In the Results tab of DeepEX (after the analysis is completed), we can select the option “Wall
Embed FS”. This button shows on the model area the tables, presenting the wall embedment and
basal stability safety factors of each wall, in the selected construction stage.

Figure 6.2.14: Wall embedment and basal stability result tables

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6.3 Partial Wall Results and Equations

Partial results for each wall can be reviewed in the Edit wall dialog. After the calculation is
completed, we can select a construction stage and double-click on any wall. In the dialog that
appears we can select the option “Show full calculations”. This button opens an xml file,
presenting all equations and calculation procedure for the structural design of the selected wall,
in the selected stage. The calculation procedure is described based on the selected design
standard, according to the wall section type (reinforced concrete or steel sections).

Figure 6.3.1: Wall equations and calculation procedure (selected stage)

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6.4 Partial Support Results and Equations

Partial results for each support can be reviewed in the Edit supports dialog. After the calculation
is completed, we can select a construction stage and double-click on any support. In the dialog
that appears we can access the tab “Results” and review the partial results (forces, capacities,
structural ratios) of the selected support in the selected construction stage. In the same dialog
we can select the option “Show full calculations” or some support types (struts, rakers and
concrete slabs). This button opens an xml file, presenting all equations and calculation procedure
for the structural design of the selected wall, in the selected stage. The calculation procedure is
described based on the selected design standard, according to the wall section type (reinforced
concrete or steel sections).

Figure 6.4.1: Support partial results (selected stage)

Figure 6.4.2: Support equations and calculation procedure (selected stage)

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6.5 Model Automatic Optimization Tools

In DeepEX software, we can review the model results and take specific actions to optimize all
model items manually. This is the suggested method, because it allows us to review all partial
results and locate the most efficient solution. DeepEX software offers a series of automatic
optimization tools in the Optimize and Design tabs that can assist us with the partial optimization
of several items.

6.5.1 Defining Redesign Options

In the Optimize tab of DeepEX, we can select the button “Redesign options”. By selecting this
option, in the dialog that appears we can design the search limits for the walls and supports
structural sections. We can define the minimum and maximum section thicknesses, rebar sizes,
tieback bonded part lengths etc.

Figure 6.5.1: Automatic optimization redesign options

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6.5.2 Automatic Optimization of a Design Section

After the analysis is completed, we can select the option “Optimize Design Section” from the
Optimize tab of DeepEX. This action will start optimizing automatically all structural members
(walls and supports), if the calculated rations are above the limit “1”.

For each wall in the selected design section, the software will check and report different
structural sections of the selected wall reinforcement type (H piles, pipes, channel sections, sheet
piles or rebar configurations by using the software implemented steel sections and rebar sizes
databases), along with the calculated structural ratios. We can select from the provided list with
sections and ratios which section should be applied in each wall.

Figure 6.5.2: Automatic design section optimization – Select a wall section

For the ground anchors structural optimization, the software will optimize the number of strands
using the specified strand diameter, so that the produced structural capacity is bigger than the
applied support reaction. DeepEX will repeat the procedure for each ground anchor and notify us
about the section change.

For the ground anchors geotechnical optimization, the software will start increasing the anchor
bonded length by the value DL that can be edited by the user in the Redesign options dialog,
calculate the geotechnical ratio for each step and stop the analysis when the calculated
geotechnical capacity is more than enough to cover the applied load, or the limit length in the
Redesign options dialog is reached.

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For each support (struts, concrete slabs, rakers) in the selected design section, the software will
check and report different structural sections of the selected support reinforcement type (H piles,
pipes, square hollow sections or rebar configurations by using the software implemented steel
sections and rebar sizes databases), along with the calculated structural ratios. We can select
from the provided list with sections and ratios which section should be applied in each support.

Figure 6.5.3: Automatic design section optimization – Select a support section

After optimizing each support and wall in the selected design section, DeepEX will load a file
describing all the changes performed by the software on structural sections and anchor lengths.

Figure 6.5.4: Automatic design section optimization – Optimization report

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6.5.3 Automatic Optimization of Support Locations

After the analysis is completed, we can select the option “Optimize Support Locations” from the
Optimize tab of DeepEX. In the dialog that appears, we can specify the initial and maximum depth
for each support, as well as, the depth increment which the software will use to move each
support and the maximum desired wall displacement. DeepEX will start a long-lasting procedure,
where it will use all possible combinations for each support on the model area using the defined
limits and depth increment, it will perform the analysis for each combination and return the
position combination that produces the optimum wall moments and displacement diagrams.

Figure 6.5.5: Automatic optimization of support locations options

6.5.4 Automatic Optimization of a Single Support (Structural)

After the analysis is completed, we can select the option “Autodesign a support (STR)” and select
a support on the model area. For a ground anchors structural optimization, the software will
optimize the number of strands using the specified strand diameter, so that the produced
structural capacity is bigger than the applied support reaction. For struts, concrete slabs or
rakers, the software will check and report different structural sections of the selected support
reinforcement type (H piles, pipes, square hollow sections or rebar configurations by using the
software implemented steel sections and rebar sizes databases), along with the calculated
structural ratios. We can select from the provided list with sections and ratios which section
should be applied to the selected support.

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6.5.5 Automatic Optimization of a Single Support (Structural)

After the analysis is completed, we can select the option “Autodesign a support (STR)” and select
a support on the model area. The software will check and report different structural sections of
the selected wall reinforcement type (H piles, pipes, channel sections, sheet piles or rebar
configurations by using the software implemented steel sections and rebar sizes databases),
along with the calculated structural ratios. We can select from the provided list with sections and
ratios which section should be applied in each wall.

6.5.6 Automatic Optimization of a Single Ground Anchor Fixed Length (Geotechnical)

After the analysis is completed, we can select the option “Autodesign fixed length for a ground
anchor (GEO)” from the Optimize tab of DeepEX and select a specific tieback in the model area.
The software will start increasing the anchor bonded length by the value DL that can be edited by
the user in the Redesign options dialog, calculate the geotechnical ratio for each step and stop
the analysis when the calculated geotechnical capacity is more than enough to cover the applied
load, or the limit length in the Redesign options dialog is reached.

6.6 Stage Calculations and Warnings

- Show calculations for stage: By pressing the button in the Reports tab of DeepEX,
an xml file opens, containing all calculations that have been performed in the current stage.

- Calculation Warnings: By pressing the button in the Reports tab of DeepEX, the
Calculation warnings dialog appears. Here we can see general warnings that are generated
when calculations have been performed.

Figure 6.6.1: Calculation warnings.

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6.7 Report Options (Printed Reports)

Once a project is analyzed, full analysis reports can be generated by selecting the Reports –
Options option at the Report tab. By selecting this, we can modify the included output sections.

Figure 6.7.1: Open the report manager

6.7.1 Selecting Report Design Sections and Construction Stages

On the left side of the dialog, we can select which design sections and stages will be included in
the current report. Initially, we have to unselect any design section that should not be reported.
The, by expanding this design section name, we can select/unselect the construction stages of
the expanded design section.

Figure 6.7.2: Report manager – Select design sections and construction stages

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6.7.2 Selecting the Report Sections and Defining the Sections Order

From the Available Report Sections area, we can select the results and options that shall be
included in the final report. In this middle section, a lot of possible report section categories are
included (results, graphs, partial results, equations and calculation procedure and more). We can
expand these categories and drag and drop any desired section to the Report Format column on
the right side of the dialog. By drag and drop we can also change the order of the report sections
in the Report Format column.

Figure 6.7.3: Report manager – Select design sections and construction stages

Figure 6.7.4: Report manager – Change the report sections order

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6.7.3 Defining Graphs and Sketches Layout Options

At the bottom left area of the report manager, we can select which result graphs should be
included in the final report. By selecting a graph category (Lateral pressures, Bending moments,
Lateral wall deflection, Shear forces), additional options appear to the right and we can select
whether or not the graphs should be reported.

At the bottom middle area of the report manager, we can select whether or not borders should
be used in the reported sketches, as well as the sketch layout (Vertical-half page, Vertical-full
page, Landscape).

Figure 6.7.5: Report manager – Graphs and sketches layout options

6.7.6 Previewing and Exporting a Report

From the bottom right side of the report manager dialog, we can select to preview the report,
save it to PDF or save it to MS Word format.

Figure 6.7.6: Report manager – Preview and export report options

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CHAPTER 7: SLOPE STABILITY ANALYSIS AND SOIL NAILING

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7.1 Slope Stability Methods in DeepEX

DeepEX offers a variety of slope stability analysis methods that can calculate the safety factors of
circular and non-circular slope surfaces. The following methods are available:

A. Simplified Bishop Method

The simplified Bishop method uses the method of slices to discretize the soil mass and determine
the FS (Factor of Safety). This method satisfies vertical force equilibrium for each slice and overall
moment equilibrium about the center of the circular trial surface. Since horizontal forces are not
considered at each slice, the simplified Bishop method also assumes zero interslice shear forces.

In the Bishop method, only circular failure surfaces should be examined. One of the major
limitations of the Bishop method is that only moment equilibrium is considered. To simplifiy the
analysis and verification, support effects in the Bishop method are calculated as an additional
moment resistance that is applied on the overal moment safety factor equation. The moment
resistance is calculated for each support about the center of rotation. If a support is encompassed
by the failure circle then this support is ignored for slope stability purposes.

B. Generalized Limit Equilibrium Method (GLE – Morgenstern-Price)

The GLE method is an extension of Spencer’s (1973) method, which has been generalized by
Chugh (1986). The GLE method adopts a function to assign the interslice force angle on the right-
hand side of each slice. There are several interslice force angle functions that can be adopted to
emlate any slope shape.

In the General Limit Equilibrium method, the support forces are considered in the overall vertical
and horizontal directions for both moment and horizontal equilibrium. Since supports are always
installed first on a vertical face of the wall slice, the general equilibrium equation with the
moments is expanded to include the exact point where each support force is applied. The total
vertical and horizontal support force is included.

C. Spencer Method

The Spencer method is analyzed in the same manner as the GLE method within the software
program. The only difference is that a single interslice angle is assumed for all the slices. In the
Spencer method, the support forces are considered in the overall vertical and horizontal
directions for both moment and horizontal equilibrium. The supports in Spencer method are
considered exactly the same way as in GLE method.

D. Ordinary Swedish Method

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We can select to apply a slope stability method in the Slope tab of DeepEX.

Figure 7.1.1: Select a slope stability analysis method

After selecting a method, we can define the method parameters by pressing the button “Options”
in the Slope tab of DeepEX. In the dialog that appears we can define several parameters for all
methods (preliminary slice width, minimum number of slices etc.), as well as parameters for the
equations when GLE method (Morgenstern-Price) is selected.

Figure 7.1.2: Define slope stability analysis method options

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7.2 Define Circular Failure Surface

We can select the options to use either circular slope surfaces or circular surfaces with active
and/or passive wedges in the Slope tab of DeepEX. After this selection we have to define the
position of a slope center or a rectangular of centers, as well as, define the points where the
circular surface radius would possibly pass from.

7.2.1: Select to use circular slope surfaces

Using a Single Slope Center

When we wish to use a single point as a center for the slope surfaces, we have to use the tool
from the Draw tools option in the Slope tab of DeepEX. Next, we have to click on the model area,
close to the point we wish to add the center. By double-clicking on the center we can define the
exact position.

Figure 7.2.2: Add a single slope center and edit center position

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Using a Rectangle of Centers

When we wish to check several spots at once as possible slope centers, we can select from the
Draw tools options in the Slope tab of DeepEX to add a rectangular of centers. By double-clicking
on the rectangle, we can define the exact position and number of increments, increasing or
decreasing the number of the possible centers.

Figure 7.2.3: Add and edit a rectangle of slope centers

Defining Radius Search Options

Right below the wall, we can locate a green line with points. This line represents the radius search
limits and the points will be used as possible points where the slope surfaces will pass from. The
software will calculate and return the most critical slope surface. By double-clicking on the green
line, we can modify the slope search limits and number of increments. In addition, instead of
limits, we can also define a specific slope radius.

Figure 7.2.4: Edit radius search limits

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7.3 User-Specified Failure Surface

Sometimes, it is required to check the stability of a specific, non-circular slope surface. In this
case, we can select the option “User specified surface” in the Slope tab of DeepEX.

Figure 7.3.1: Select to use a custom specified surface

From the Draw tools in the slope tab of DeepEX, we can select the tool to draw a user defined
surface. Then we need to click on points on the model area, where we wish the slope surface to
pass from. It is good to start from a point on the ground surface and then define all points from
left to right. When we pass the last point, we need to press the “Enter” button from the keyboard.
The custom slope surface is generated. By double-clicking on it, we can define the exact position
of all points.

Figure 7.3.2: Add a user-defined slope surface

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7.4 Automatic Failure Surface Search

DeepEX has an option locate the most critical failure surface automatically, within the model
limits. This option is available in the Slope tab of DeepEX.

Figure 7.4.1: Select to use the automatic failure surface search option
When the automatic search option is selected, two green lines appear on the left and right side
of the model, representing the left and right slope search limits. We can double-click on each line
and define the x-coordinates of the start and end point of each search limit.

Figure 7.4.2: Automatic slope search limits

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7.5 Slope Stability Options Dialog

By clicking on the button in the Slope tab of DeepEX, the slope stability options dialog
appears. In the method tab (Figure 7.5.1), we can define the slope stability method used to
analyze the model.

Figure 7.5.1: Slope stability options – method tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

Symbol Description
Bishop Select Bishop simplified method for the slope stability analysis
Morgenstern Price Select Morgenstern Price method for the slope stability analysis
Ordinary (Swedish) Select Ordinary (Swedish) method for the slope stability analysis
m Factor for interslice force equation (if MP method is selected)
v Factor for interslice force equation (if MP method is selected)
FS0 Initial assumption for factor of safety (if MP method is selected)
λ0 Initial assumption for scaling factor (if MP method is selected)
Spencer Select Spencer method for the slope stability analysis
Janbu Select Janbu method for the slope stability analysis
- Define the maximum number of iterations for each search point
- Define the convergence Tolerance
DX Define the preliminary slice width
- Define the minimum number of slices

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In the center tab (Figure 7.5.2), the user can define the properties for the centers of the circles
used in the slope stability analysis.

Figure 7.5.2: Slope stability options – center tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

Symbol Description
Use only one point for the Choose to use only one point for the center of the circular type
analysis failure
Use exact coordinates for Choose to use exact coordinates for center search. Otherwise
center search coordinates will be relative to the left wall (top corner)
Left Left search limit (for a rectangular type search)
Right Right search limit (for a rectangular type search)
steps Search steps between the two horizontal limits (for a rectangular
type search)
Top Top search limit (for a rectangular type search)
Bottom Bottom search limit (for a rectangular type search)
steps Search steps between the two vertical limits (for a rectangular type
search)
Rotation Rotation angle (used for rectangular search)

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In the Radius search tab (Figure 7.5.3), we can define the properties for the radius of the circles
used in slope stability analysis.

Figure 7.5.3: Slope stability options – radius search tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

Symbol Description
Use a single radius for search Choose to use a single radius for search
Specify exact radii limits Choose to Specify exact radii limits (for start and end radius)
Initial R Initial radius limit ( if the choice to Specify exact radii limits is
selected)
Final R Final radius limit ( if the choice to Specify exact radii limits is
selected)
Specify exact coordinates Choose to search radii with two points
Initial X Initial search point X-coordinate
Initial Z Initial search point Z-coordinate
Final X Final search point X-coordinate
Final Z Final search point Z-coordinate
Radius starts at Define the Radius start limits (if no other option is selected)
Radius ends at Define the Radius end limits (if no other option is selected)
Radii increments Define the radii increments

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In the Active/passive tab (Figure 7.5.4), we can control options for including active and passive
wedges for the slope stability analysis.

Figure 7.5.4: Slope stability options – Active/passive tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

Symbol Description
Include active angle Choose to include active angle limit and define it
limit
Sweep active angle Choose to sweep active angle (if the previous option is selected)
Angle Range+ , steps Define Angle range and steps (if the sweep option is selected)
Include passive angle Choose to include passive angle limit and define it
limit
Sweep passive angle Choose to sweep active angle (if the previous option is selected)
Angle Range+ , steps Define Angle range and steps (if the sweep option is selected)
Use block analysis Choose to use block analysis
Initial X Initial block point X-coordinate (if the block analysis option is selected)
Initial Z Initial block point Z-coordinate (if the block analysis option is selected)
Final X Final block point X-coordinate (if the block analysis option is selected)
Final Z Final block point Z-coordinate (if the block analysis option is selected)
steps Define steps for block analysis (if the block analysis option is selected)

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In the Supports tab (Figure 7.5.5), the user can define how support forces are included within the
slope stability analysis.

Figure 7.5.5: Slope stability options – Supports tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:
Symbol Description
Include support reactions Includes support reactions as analyzed by the wall
analysis
Include support service capacities Includes support service capacities as analyzed by the
wall analysis
Include support ultimate capacities Includes support ultimate capacities as analyzed by the
wall analysis
Ignore support forces Ignores support forces in slope stability analysis
Determine soil nail forces from Determines mobilized soil nail forces from iteration
iteration (when FS = 1)
Define minimum mobilization factor Defines minimum mobilization factor as a percentage of
as a percentage of the ultimate the ultimate capacity (if the previous option is selected)
capacity
Inails.mob Mobilization interaction factor (if the previous option is
selected). This factor is used to determine mobilized
soil nail forces from:
Fmob = (Fx,ultimate – Fx,FS) x Inails.mob + Fx,FS = 1

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In the Miscellaneous tab (Figure 7.5.6), we can control how the wall shear is accounted in the
slope stability analysis (when a wall is intersected).

Figure 7.5.6: Slope stability options – Miscellaneous tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

Description
Choose to include shear capacity of wall in stability
Choose to include ultimate wall capacities (design shear x FS.structural)
Option to include the tensile pile wall resistance into the calculations.
Choose to include support ultimate capacities
Choose ignore soil shear on vertical faces (at ends)
Choose to use at-rest pressures on a vertical face
Define the number of vertical intervals (when a vertical end face is included)
Choose to include tieback shear on slice base (if tiebacks used in the model). With this
feature, the normal stress and shear is increased when the fixed part of the tieback
intersects the base of the slice (Bishop method)

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In the 3D Loads tab (Figure 7.5.7), we can define how 3D Loads are accounted in slope stability
analysis.

Figure 7.5.7: Slope stability options – 3D Loads tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

• Ignore all footing loads (and other 3D loads)

• Include all footing loads (and other 3D loads)
• Include footing loads within maximum support spacing from wall Y coordinate
• Include footing loads only between out-of-plane search limits, relative to wall Y coordinate

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In the Tension crack tab (Figure 7.5.8), we can control options for including a tension crack within
the slope stability analysis.

Figure 7.5.8: Slope stability options – Tension crack tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

• Include tension crack

• Use a specified tension crack depth
• Define the tension crack depth (if the previous option is selected)
• Use automatic crack depth (from top layer)
• Fill the tension crack with water

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In the Automatic Search tab (Figure 7.5.9), we can control options for automatic radius search
within the slope stability analysis.

Figure 7.5.9: Slope stability options – Tension crack tab.

The following properties are available in this tab:

• Number of points
• Initial DX and DZ for search
• Left horizontal search limits (XLmin and XLmax)
• Right horizontal search limits (XRmin and XRmax)
• Maximum number of iterations per search point

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7.6 Add and Edit Soil Nails

On a sloped ground surface in DeepEX, we can select to add a single row or a group of rows of
soil nails. The soil nails can be added, using the tools in the Slope tab of DeepEX. Later, we can
access and define the exact position, installation angle, horizontal spacing, length and structural
section of each soil nail row.

Figure 7.6.1: Add/Edit a single soil nail row

Figure 7.6.2: Add/Edit a group of soil nail rows

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In the general tab of the Edit soil nail dialog (Figure 7.6.3) we can set the soil nail’s position on the
slope, the nail free and fixed length and the nail installation angle. In addition, the user defined
the head plate angle and the structural section of the nail can be defined. By pressing the Edit
button (Figure 7.6.4) the Tieback Anchors – Sections dialog appears, where the user can choose
the strand sections for the soil nail. Next, the user can choose to use capacity loss due to
corrosion, as well as some other analysis options (Figure 7.6.5).

Figure 7.6.3: Edit soil nail dialog.

Symbol Description
X The start X-coordinate of the soil nail
Z The start Z-coordinate of the soil nail
Lfree The soil nail’s free length
Lfix The soil nail’s fixed length
a The soil nail’s installation angle
Horizontal Spacing The soil nail’s horizontal spacing
β The cover plates angle

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The following options are also available:

• Define the structural section of the soil nail and choose to edit it
• Choose to use capacity loss. Then, the user has to define the following properties:
 The thickness loss tC, or
 The capacity loss as a percentage of the total capacity.
• Choose to activate or deactivate the support in the current stage.
• Define whether the support is permanent or not (affects results when a design approach
is used).
• Choose to use only external load analysis for the soil nail.
• Choose to include shear when the nail is intersected by a failure surface.

Figure 7.6.4: Edit soil nail section.

Figure 7.6.5: Analysis options.

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7.7 Review Slope Stability and Soil Nail Results

To run the slope stability analysis in a model, this model needs to be analyzed first. When the
general analysis is performed, we can select to run additionally the slope stability analysis from
the Slope tab of DeepEX.

Figure 7.7.1: Option to run slope stability analysis (model needs to be analyzed first)
After the slope stability analysis is performed, the most critical slope surface and the slope
stability safety factor appear on the model area.

Figure 7.7.2: Calculated critical surface and slope stability FS

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From the Results tab of DeepEX, we can select to present the results for the slices. By double-
clicking on a slice, we can review the result diagram of the specific slice.

Figure 7.7.3: Slope stability results - slices

By selecting the option “Global FS Contours” in the Results tab of DeepEX, we can review in the
rectangle of centers the safety factors calculated on for all possible slope centers.

Figure 7.7.4: Slope stability results – global FS contours

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When soil nails are used in the model, DeepEX presents the soil nail results on the model area
and in the soil nails partial dialog (when we double-click on a soil nail after the analysis is
performed). On the model area, we can review the stresses along the soil nail and the soil nail
reaction. In the partial dialog, we can review the soil nail results in tables.

Figure 7.6.5: Soil nail results on the model area

Figure 7.6.6: Soil nail results in tables

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In the results tab of dialog (Figure 7.6.7), we can see the following results:

Figure 7.6.7: Results options.

Symbol Description
Paxial Axial force of the nail
M Moment of the nail
Po. At face Reaction at the facing of the nail
Pmax.mob The mobilized axial force of the nail
Pmax. stage Maximum reaction for current stage
Pmax. All stages Maximum reaction of all stages
Pmax. Global Maximum reaction of all linked design sections
Pgeo. Design Geotechnical design capacity
P geo. ultimate Geotechnical ultimate capacity
Pdesign Structural design capacity
Pult Structural ultimate capacity

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In the detailed results tab of the Edit soil nail dialog (Figure 7.6.6) we can see the following results
in a tabulated format:

Tension: This column contains the tension of the soil nail because of the critical slope surface.

Tension max: This column contains the maximum tension that occurs to this soil nail because of
all slope surfaces that intersect this nail.

Tension Capacity STR: This column contains the geotechnical (pullout) capacity of the soil nail.

Critical Shear GEO: This column contains the minimum shear from those calculated from the
three criteria (see below).

Shear Capacity STR: This column contains the structural shear capacity.

Shear C2: This column contains the shear as calculated from the three criteria (C1, C2, C4) (see
slope stability manual, pages 31 – 33).

Shear C3: Same as above.

Shear C4: Same as above.

Shear C4 LE: Same as above (LE: Limit equilibrium analysis)

Modulus ks: This column contains the lateral subgrade reaction modulus at the critical
intersection surface point.

Lateral pressure: See slope stability manual, page 31.

Ultimate lateral pressure: See slope stability manual, page 31.

Length: This column includes the calculated transfer length of the soil nail at the intersection with
the critical slope surface.

Ixx calc: This column includes the calculated moment of inertia of the nail (includes all reductions
for corrosion etc).

Sxx calc: This column includes the section modulus (European designation is Wel)

Thickness loss: This column includes the soil reinforcement thickness loss.

% STR loss: This column includes the percentage of structural capacity loss (when corrosion is
included).

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CHAPTER 8: ADDITIONAL (OPTIONAL) MODULES AND FEATURES

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8.1 Project Cost Estimation (Cost Estimation Module)

As previously mentioned, the DeepEX cost module is not supposed to produce an exact project
cost. The main idea behind the module is to be able for each individual to quickly evaluate the
effect on pricing of various alternatives. Cost profile can be customized and stored in a database.
Taking into consideration as many parameters as possible, DeepEX produces a 1st order
approximate cost estimate. The following figures and tables present the various options available
within the cost estimation options dialog:
- City Multipliers: Basic city and country cost multipliers
A cost multiplier is a factor that can account for local city or state variations compared to
the standard database. These factors are expressed as percentages. In most cases one
should use 100%.

Figure 8.1.1: City multipliers tab page.

Define the Country, State and City name

Add the area Zip Code
Define partial cost multipliers for material and installation, or a total one
Choose the currency for the cost estimation
Define the conversion factor from Dollars to selected currency
Choose to refresh currency list
Option to convert values when changing currency
Option to load a DeepEX Cost file
Option to save a DeepEX Cost file

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- Wall: Cost data for wall construction works (installation and materials).

Figure 8.1.2: Wall tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:

Define costs for soldier piles (driven piles, drilled in piles, lagging cost) and pile diameter
Define costs for diaphragm wall (trenching soil, trenching rock, concrete Tremie) and wall depth
Define costs for driven sheet piles (leave in peace, extract and salvage) and wall depth
Define costs for secant pile walls (tangent piles, secant piles) and wall depth
Define the soldier pile lagging cost
Define the sheet pile material cost
Define the diaphragm wall material cost
Option include a multiplier for obstructions
Option use size cost factors
Option to allow or not values smaller than 1 for size cost factors
Option to select from database (see Figure 4.8.3)

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If we choose to select costs from database, the dialog in Figure 8.1.3 appears. In this dialog we
can select the wall type, crew number and costs from the available database.

Figure 8.1.3: Costs database.

- Tiebacks: Installation and material costs for ground anchors (tiebacks).

Figure 8.1.4: Tiebacks tab page.

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This tab page includes the following options:

Define soil type and drilling cost

Option include a multiplier for obstructions
Define rock type and drilling cost
Option use size cost factors
Option use cost for each header assembly
Define strand type and cost
Define grout material and installation cost and grout overpour
Option to select from database

- Struts: Material and installation costs for struts (and rakers).

Figure 8.1.5: Struts tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:
Define cost for low strength and high strength struts
Define installation cost
Option to select from database
Steel material costs defined here are also used for other steel members when appropriate.

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- Slabs: Installation and material costs for slab supports.

Figure 8.1.6: Slabs tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:

Define cost for materials (reinforcement, concrete and multiplier for ties)
Define installation cost for concrete and reinforcement
Option to use conventional or top down slab construction
Define multiplier for diaphragm wall reinforcement installation
Option to select from database

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- Wales: Installation costs for steel wale beams and supports.

Figure 8.1.7: Wales tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:

Option to include total wale cost for each support

Define wale weight per unit length
Define installation cost
Option to select from database

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- Excavation: Installation costs for excavation and backfilling works.

Figure 8.1.8: Excavation tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:

Define costs for soil, rock, haul and backfill installation

Define volume expand percentage
Option to use compaction
Option to select from database
Option to use excavation cost multiplier
Option use size cost factors
Define soil contamination and multipliers
Define contamination cost multiplier

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- Dewatering: Installation and operation costs for dewatering (approximate).

Figure 8.1.9: Dewatering tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:

Option to include or ignore dewatering costs

Define volume expand percentage
Option to include pump costs
Option to define number of pumps
Option to use number of wells per pump
Option to include dewatering wells
Define well length
Define well costs (material and installation)
Option to use wall spacing
Option to define number of wells

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- Calculations: Overall cost options for mobilization, profit, etc.

Figure 8.1.10: Calculations tab page.

This tab page includes the following options:

Option to use mobilization cost

Option to use overhead and profit
Option use contingency allowance
Option to use global cost multiplier
Option to report cost for lengths
Define wall perimeter
Define bracing perimeter
Define excavation perimeter
Define construction time

Finally, we can

• Set cost settings as default

• Open default cost settings

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8.2 3D Model in DeepEX (3D Frame Analysis Module)

The frame module enables you to design excavations supported by walers, struts and tiebacks for
a full excavation. The 3D definitions consist of an external project perimeter and an excavation
perimeter. A wall perimeter is typically assigned to the excavation perimeter, with the possibility
of assigning a different wall section (relating to a design section) on each wall segment (between
nodes).

Walers are attached to wall segments, and different loads along the waler from different design
sections can be defined. The walers may be attached on bracing lines attached on a specific wall
segment. Once the walers are in place, struts can be drawn between walers and the excavation
shoring can be analyzed. Based on your analysis results, DeepEX will pick up the load from each
design section and figure out reactions and stress checks on walers and struts or ground anchors.
Alternatively, ground anchors can be attached directly on a specific bracing line.

The frame module works better for box shaped excavations, additional modelling maybe required
for re-entrant corners or special conditions. Some simplifying assumptions are made regarding
how axial loads are distributed. Currently the software does not include any reductions in axial
force in walers due to static friction or other effects.

In order to use the 3D Model feature of DeepEX, we first need to create at least one design section
in DeepEX with two walls, loads and all design stages. Next, we can use the 3D wizard of DeepEX
in order to create a 3D model of the site. The easiest way to create a model is to use the 3D
wizard:

After creating a model (ideally with two walls), press the button to launch the 3D Model
Wizard dialog (Figures 8.2.1 to 8.2.5).

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• Perimeter to Use tab

The first step would be to select how we would like to generate the shape of the new wall
perimeter. We can control if a rectangular shape is used, if we will be utilizing an already
defined wall perimeter, or importing points from a tab delimited file. When a rectangular
shape is defined it better to use a greater DX view (length on x axis) so that the model is
easier to view in plan.

Figure 8.2.1: Perimeter to use tab of 3D model wizard

This dialog provides the following options:

Parameter Description
Generate a standard shape Option to generate a standard shaped excavation (rectangular)
Use existing perimeter Option to use Excavation Perimeter or Project Perimeter
Import from tab delimited Creates new 3D Perimeter from a user defined tab delimited file
file the format needs to be in x y z values
Import from tab delimited Same option as before but a new wall perimeter is generated.
file and create a new
perimeter
Reference point coordinates Defines the coordinates of the reference point
Spacing DX and DY Defines the horizontal and vertical spacing of the rectangular
excavation site
Q Rotation angle for excavation

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• Design Section tab

Figure 8.2.2: Design Section tab of 3D model wizard

In this dialog we can define the design section and the wall section for creating the 3D model.
The design section is used to generate all supports, stages and excavation surfaces. The wall
section is used to generate the wall properties of the 3D model. In addition, here we can define
the location of the first strut from corner as a percentage of the support spacing.

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• Wall Perimeter tab

Figure 8.2.3: Wall perimeter tab of 3D model wizard

In this dialog we can define the wall perimeter that will be used in the 3D model. Currently only
an existing wall perimeter can be modified.

• Topographical tab

Figure 8.2.4: Topographical tab of 3D model wizard

In this dialog we can define the excavation surface that will be used. There is an option to create
a new 3D surface. In addition, here we can choose to reset all node and variable node elevations.

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• OK tab

Figure 8.2.5: OK tab of 3D model wizard

In the last tab we can select the initial stage where the walls are generated and also define how
wale segments are created. With the simplified wall modelling with continuous walers, DeepEX
will generate a simplified element along each wall side. The simplified element will not contain
specific wall items (such as individual piles) and simply represents a generic wall. In this case, the
walers will be attached a continuous element along each waler side at the desired elevations.

With the second option “Create bracing levels…” the program will generate individual wall items
such as soldier piles along each wall segment. Then ground anchors will be attached to each
individual wall item that is generated. In this case, walers will not be automatically generated.

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Figure 8.2.6.a: 3D model

The following table presents the basic control options of the frame analysis module:

Figure 8.2.6.b: 3D tab options

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ITEM DESCRIPTION
Creates a 2D plan of the 3D model, according to the selected
parameters
Switches between Black/white and Normal model coloring for better
definition

Calculates the 3D frame

Launches the dialog with the analysis settings for 3D walers.

Selects the support level to preview in the model screen. The show
support lowest level option to show the lowest stage at the current
stage.

Adds a strut support in the selected support level

Adds a tieback support in the selected support level

Explodes the model. After this action we can modify each structural
member by double clicking on it
Optimizes all objects. This option can be used since the model is
calculated
Cuts a linear item (wall, waler)

Refreshes the model stages and properties

Figure 8.2.6.c: 3D Frame analysis options

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In the analysis settings the program currently offers one option. This option allows redistribution
of unbalanced axial forces along the walers. Details and limitations are described within the
dialog.

After the 3D model is created, we can modify the parameters of individual supports and walers,
erase them or add new items in the model. We can also a waler strut configuration or draw a new
3D perimeter, so we can generate a new excavation (Figure 8.2.6.d).

By double-clicking on a waler support, the waler supports dialog appears (Figure 8.2.7).

Figure 8.2.6.d: Draw options for 3D models

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Figure 8.2.6.e: Adding Wale-Strut Configurations (on bracing lines)

Figure 8.2.7.a: The Waler Data dialog and tab

A waler must be assigned a name, an elevation, a wall perimeter, and a wall segment. Once a
waler is assigned a wall segment, the start and end nodes of the waler must be selected. Also, we

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can define the waler section type (steel member, concrete or hydraulic), as well as the waler
section properties. A waler must be connected to another waler at each end in order to reproduce
a box type reaction behavior. The following connection options are available:

• Connect the waler to another waler

• Free end loaded by next wall
• Free end (no reaction)
• Not connected

The connection options direct the program how the waler is physically connected to adjacent
walers. These options are mostly for graphical uses:

Figure 8.2.7.b: Wale segment connection options

If a waler is attached on a bracing line, then the waler will pick up loads from that bracing line and
the waler elevation will be automatically selected according to that bracing line.

The Support Index tells the program which support (from the assigned wall perimeter) is used for
the primary loading (absence of any additional loading patterns).

Finally, we can define whether or not we will include reductions in axial force due to the interface
frictions, as well as the unsupported length in vertical directions.

In Tab B, loading patterns can be specified along the waler length to create more complex loading
conditions. The activations of the waler can be controlled from Tab C.

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Figure 8.2.7.c: Waler loading patterns options

Figure 8.2.7.d: Stage activations for waler

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The following options are available in this dialog:

Parameter Description
Name Defines the waler name
Elevation Defines the waler elevation
Waler section Defines the waler section (it can be edited)
Wall perimeter Defines the wall perimeter
Wall Segment Defines the wall segment
Start node Defines the start node and the connected waler
End node Defines the end node and the connected waler
Support index Defines the support index
Load Patterns Option to use load patterns (add/delete patterns in the list)
Design section Defines the design section from which to create the pattern
Support index Defines the support index
Starting At / Ending At Defines the load length
Activation stage Defines the stage in which the waler is activated
Show full calculations Creates and opens an XML file with all calculations for the waler
support (the model has to be calculated)

By double-clicking on a strut or raker support, the 3D struts and rakers dialog appears (Figure
8.2.8).

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Figure 8.2.8: The 3D struts and rakers dialog.

The following options are available in this dialog:

Parameter Description
Name Defines the strut or raker name
Strut section Defines the strut or raker section (it can be edited)
Wale Segment Defines the wale segment on the start and end node of the strut
Wale node Defines the wale node for the start and end node of the strut
Offset along wale Defines the strut offset along the start and end waler
Activation stage Defines the stage in which the support is activated

In the 2020 version plates can be attached at the start or end of walers. The plates are currently
utilized only for drawing purposes and the program does not perform any structural checks on
them.

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By double-clicking on a tieback support, the 3D anchors dialog appears (Figure 8.2.9).

Figure 8.2.9: The 3D Anchors dialog.

Ground anchors can be attached on walers, directly on bracing lines, or on wall items along
specific bracing lines. For soil conditions, DeepEX will assume the assigned design section along
the wall segment for determining the allowable geotechnical capacity of the ground anchor. The
following options are available in this dialog:

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Parameter Description
Name Defines the tieback name
Tieback section Defines the tieback section
Angle Z Defines the vertical angle of the tieback
Angle XY Defines the horizontal angle of the tieback
Auto follow angle Option to follow the angle automatically when a wale segment is
used
Lfree Defines the free length of the tieback support
Lfixed Defines the fixed length of the tieback support
Use wale segment Defines the used wale segment
Offset along wale from node Defines the tieback offset along the waler, from a specific waler
node
Use general node Option to use a general node
Connect to bracing level With this option the ground anchor will be attached to a bracing
line on a specific wall segment.
Specify end point Option to specify an end point for the end of the tieback (used in
cases that the tieback horizontally connects two opposite walls)

• Nodes

By double-clicking on the node items, the 3D Nodes dialog appears (Figure 8.2.10). In this dialog,
we can add, delete or modify the coordinates of the 3D nodes. In DeepEX there are 2 types of 3D
Nodes: The fixed Nodes with all coordinates fixed and the variable nodes with fixed X and Y
coordinates and variable Z coordinate that can be changed in each stage. The variable nodes are
used to design the 3D surfaces.

Figure 8.2.10: The 3D Nodes and the Variable 3D Nodes dialogs.

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• 3D Perimeters

By double-clicking on the perimeter items, the 3D Perimeters dialog appears (Figure 8.2.11). In
this dialog, we can add, delete or modify the perimeters with the use of the created 3D nodes.

Figure 8.2.11: The 3D Perimeters dialog.

• 3D Surfaces

By double-clicking on the surface items, the 3D Surfaces dialog appears (Figure 8.2.12). In this
dialog, we can add, delete or modify the surfaces with the use of the created 3D perimeters.

Figure 8.2.12: The 3D Surfaces dialog.

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The following table describes the parameters that are available in this dialog.

Parameter Description
Name Defines the name of the selected surface
Add New 3D Adds a new surface
Surface
Delete 3D Surface Deletes selected surface
Is Natural Surface Option that this is a natural surface
Is Excavation Option that this is an excavation surface
Surface
Include a Option to include a perimeter in the surface. User can choose from the
perimeter in the created perimeters
surface
Use wall perimeter Option to use a wall perimeter offset. User can choose from the created
offset perimeters
User Z for Var Define the elevation of the variable nodes
Node
User Z for all Define the elevation of all nodes
Nodes
User Z for Nodes Define the elevation of perimeter fixed nodes in each stage
per stage

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- Wall perimeters
By double-clicking on the wall perimeter items, the wall perimeters and segments dialog appears
(Figure 8.2.13). In this dialog, we can modify the wall segments with the use of the created wall
sections in the created design sections.

Figure 8.2.13: The Wall Perimeters and Segments dialog.

The following table describes the parameters that are available in this dialog.

Parameter Description
Name Defines the name of the selected wall perimeter
New Adds a new wall perimeter
Delete Deletes selected wall perimeter
Design section Defines the design section in order to use the created wall sections
Wall Defines the wall section that will be used in all segments (initially)
Use perimeter only Option to use only surface or excavation perimeter
Node 1 Start node of the specific wall segment
Node 2 End node of the specific wall segment
Toe type Defines the Toe length
L1 - L2 Lengths. Used if the option to use User defined Toe Type is selected
Custom design section Option to use a different wall section from a different (or even the
same) design section
Activate Option to use user defined activations for the wall perimeter for the
construction stages

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When one wall segment is double clicked on the 2D project plan the dialog on figures 8.2.13.b
and 8.2.13.c appears. Here, we can change the assigned design section and wall for the wall
segment. We can choose to use a different design section for this wall segment or assign the same
design section and wall for the whole wall perimeter.

With bracing lines, we can identify complex elevation alignments along each wall segment where
we can attach walers, complex loading patterns, individual ground anchors etc.

Figure 8.2.13.b: Edit wall segment options

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Figure 8.2.13.c: Edit wall segment options, Bracing Levels

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• Results
Since the model is calculated, we can calculate the 3D frame, pressing on the button

in the 3D tab. When the 3D Frame calculation is succeeded, the 3D Frame

calculation summary dialog appears.

 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Summary tab

Figure 8.2.14: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Summary tab

This tab presents the summary results for all walers and supports. Here we can review the
member elevation, moment, shear force, axial force, Ratio and section.

 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Wale results and Strut results tabs

These tabs present the same tables as in Summary tab, but only for the selected items.

 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost estimate

This tab presents the cost estimation for all model items. The following options are available:

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- Cost vs. Stage

Figure 8.2.14: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost Estimate tab – Cost vs. Stage
These tables summarize the total estimated cost, wall cost, tieback cost, strut cost, slab cost,
excavation cost, dewatering cost and cost index for each construction stage for the full 3D
excavation.

- Wall costs

Figure 8.2.15: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost Estimate tab – Wall costs
Figure 8.2.15 presents all estimated material and installation costs for the wall construction.
While Figure 8.2.16 presents the summary for support costs and quantities.

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Figure 8.2.16: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost Estimate tab – Support costs

Figure 8.2.17: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost Estimate tab – Walers costs

Figure 8.2.17 presents the cost estimation summary for all walers (if present). Figure 8.2.18
summarizes the costs for all excavation and backfill procedures, for each construction stage.

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Figure 8.2.18: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost Estimate tab – Excavation costs

Figure 8.2.19: 3D Frame Calculation Summary – Cost Estimate tab – Dewatering costs

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8.3 Export drawings in DXF (DXF Module)

The Export drawings to DXF module enables you to export all 2D sections to DXF, saving you a
respected amount of time and effort. The software exports all design sections, wall sections and
top site view to DXF. User can easily manage the export font size through a robust dialog.

Figure 8.3.1: Export to DXF – Design Sections tab.

In the Design Sections tab of the export to DXF dialog, user can create the DXF files containing
the DXF drawings for each stage of the selected design section. The following options are
available:

• Select Design Section

• Select Stage
• Option to render inactive supports
• Option to render dimensions
• Option to render soil
• Option to Render boring
• Option to render all stages (this selection deactivates the Select stage option and activates
the number of columns).
• Set the scale

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Figure 8.3.2: Export to DXF – Wall Sections tab.

In the Wall Sections tab of the export to DXF dialog, user can review and export to DXF all created
wall sections that are included in the model. There is the option to show extended wall
information on the model.

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Figure 8.3.3: Export to DXF – Sketch View tab.

In the sketch view tab of the export to DXF dialog, user can create the DXF files containing the
sketch view of each stage of the selected design section. The following options are available:

• Option to render inactive supports

• Option to highlight new supports
• Option to render all stages (this selection deactivates the Select stage option and activates
the number of columns).
• Option to show/hide elevation axes

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Figure 8.3.4: Export to DXF – Results diagrams tab.

In the results diagrams tab of the export to DXF dialog, user can create the DXF files containing
various results diagrams of each stage of the selected design section. The following options are
available:
• Option to consolidate pressure diagrams
• Option keep uniform pressure scale
• Option to render all stages (this selection deactivates the Select stage option and
activates the number of columns).
• Option to place diagrams after the cut off
• Option to show/hide elevation axes
By pressing the button , user can choose which diagrams should be included
in the model. The following options are available:

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By pressing the button , the DXF view settings dialog appears. Figures 8.3.5 to 8.3.9 below
present the various options.

Figure 8.3.5: DXF view settings – General settings.

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Figure 8.3.6: DXF view settings – Design Sections options.

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Figure 8.3.7: DXF view settings – Wall sections options.

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Figure 8.3.8: DXF view settings – Sketch view options.

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Figure 8.3.9: DXF view settings – Pressures view options.

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8.4 Gravity walls in DeepEX (Gravity walls module)

DeepEX offers the possibility to use a gravity retaining wall. This option is available with the
additional Gravity Wall module. User has the flexibility to create basic types of retaining walls
such as full gravity or with stem. Flexural, reinforcement can be included where ever desired.
Keep in mind that a gravity wall can also be used as a pier or an abutment wall with piles.

The use of gravity wall in the model can be defined in the “Edit wall data” dialog of DeepEX (Figure
8.4.1). When the Gravity wall module is activated, there appears the option “Use gravity wall
section”.

The “Edit wall data” dialog appears when user double-clicks on the wall in the Model area of
DeepEX.

Figure 8.4.1: The Edit wall data dialog with “Use gravity wall section” option.

Then this option is selected, user should press on the button . This will cause
the “Retaining wall data” dialog to appear (Figure 8.4.2). Here user can define the retaining wall
dimensions and reinforcement.

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Figure 8.4.2: Retaining Wall Data Dialog

Depending on the selected wall type on the left side of this dialog, several dimension properties
are available to be defined (Table 8.4.1). The reference coordinate for a gravity wall is taken as
the left most corner of the stem (or top of wall). This coordinate is defined from the main wall
data dialog.

Table 8.4.3: Dimension properties

Height Total wall height (excluding the key if used)
Base Total base wall width
Top width Top of the wall width
Dist. To top left corner Distance to top left corner from the far-left side of the wall
Heel thick Base thickness on the driving side
Toe width Distance from the end of the main wall body to the end of the wall toe
Toe thick Base thickness on the resisting side

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The following retaining wall types are available in DeepEX:

Wall type 0 Wall type 1 Wall type 2 Wall type 3 Wall type 4

Wall type 5 Wall type 6 Wall type 7 Wall type 8

Wall type 9

Wall type 10 Wall type 11 Wall type 12

Symbol/Option Description
Use key Select this option in order to use a passive key under the wall
Drain back face Drains back wall face when the water table is above the wall base

Calculate Driving Pressures from edge of wall: In the default mode, stability safety factors are
calculated from soil and other pressures directly acting on the driving wall sides. While this
assumption gives very good, approximate results, in theory the driving horizontal pressures can
be taken at the wall edge. By selecting this option, safety factors are calculated by pressures acting
directly on a vertical wall edge that is defined from the left most base coordinate if pressures are
driving from left to right or the right most coordinate if pressures are driving from right to left. If
this option is selected, then driving soil pressures on this vertical edge are always taken as
Active or At-rest.

The reinforcement data table enables the use of reinforcing bars on each wall face. Please note
that DeepEX does not account for development lengths and reinforcement bending. It is the final
responsibility of the engineer to decide how reinforcement has to be bent, cut, or shaped for
fabrication. DeepEX though will calculate and report all bending and shear capacities.

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8.5 Pile supported abutment module

DeepEX offers the option to analyze pile supported abutments. The pile supported abutment
option is based on the gravity wall module. Following the same dialog as in 8.4 we can define a
series of pile foundations. In contrast to gravity walls, a pile supported abutment will have a
specified width (out-of-plane dimension). To enable the pile abutment options, we must select
the “Pile supported abutment” for the available list box.

Figure 8.5.1: Pile supported abutment

Pile coordinates are defined in terms of the local x and y to the general wall used in the design
section. The edit option launches the pile edit dialog, while the length can be either changed
within this dialog or by the individual pile dialog (Figure 8.5.2). Piles can be either fixed or pinned
to the abutment. Vertical and lateral pile analysis and theory follow the methods outlined in the
DeepFND manual.

In DeepEX all design sections see the same list of pile analysis profiles. To simplify the process,
DeepEX provides a predetermined list of pile analysis profiles based on pile type (Figure 8.5.3).
These assumptions can be modified as shown in Figures 8.5.3 and 8.5.4 from the “Stability+” tab.

DeepEX will perform lateral pile analysis for all the piles calculating interaction factors based on
spacing. The default procedure uses a shading elliptic algorithm that has been calibrated against
general experience. Future editions will allow the user to manually select the PY reduction at each
pile (if desired). DeepEX does not consider group effects in the axial direction. For this reason, it
is recommended that pile spacing is at-least at three pile diameters or greater.

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Figure 8.5.2: Individual pile entry for pile supported abutments

Figure 8.5.3: Pile analysis profiles

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Figure 8.5.4: Pile analysis settings

If another wall is located in-front of the abutment DeepEX will estimate the additional surcharges
on the front wall. These estimates consider both axial and vertical loads. In such cases the out of
plane location of the examined front wall is crucial as 3D surcharge distribution effects will be
critical.

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8.6 Wall Perimeter Designer

The 3D wall items dialog allows us to fully model individual wall items in DeepEX and create
scenarios that are as close to reality as possible. These models can then be exported to
HoloDeepEX and can be viewed in three dimensions on your computer, virtual reality with
specialized glasses, or augmented reality devices such as HoloLens.

Figure 8.6.1: Wall perimeter designer dialog

With individual wall items we can generate each individual pile within a wall segment or a wall
perimeter. Each wall item is positioned relative to a connected element along a wall segment. By
right clicking on either the plan or the elevation drawings we can export these drawings to DXF
(Figure 8.6.2).

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Figure 8.6.2: Elevation view and exporting to DXF with right click

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8.7 HoloDeepEX – Holographic 3D DeepEX Model

Any 3D model created with DeepEX 3D Frame analysis additional optional module can be
exported in a hologram (the Export to HoloDeepEX additional optional module is required for this
function). The holographic models can be reviewed with our free viewer, HoloDeepEX, which can
be downloaded from the Windows Store.

The exported holographic model can be very useful, both to impress the client and show how the
final project would look like, and to check any construction issues on the project site (positions of
tiebacks related to nearby building foundations, positions of utilities and piles etc.).

Exporting a Holographic Model

First we would need to create a 3D model in the DeepEX software model area and define all wall
and support properties (the 3D Frame additional optional module is required). Next, from the left
side of the main screen we can select the option to export the holographic model, or view it in
HoloDeepEX without export (the HoloDeepEX viewer should be downloaded from Window
Store). HoloDeepEX can operate in Windows 10 desktop PCs, mixed reality headsets, or Microsoft
HoloLens. Independent graphics card (1060 or greater) is recommended but not required.

Figure 8.7.1: Options to export or view a holographic model

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Viewing Model in Desktop

HoloDeepEX can open in any desktop or laptop PC that has Windows 10. We can go through the
stages with voice commands or with the PC mouse and keyboard. Mouse can also assist as walk
around the project area, zoom in and out and in general navigate on the project site and review
the staged construction from all possible angles.

Figure 8.7.2: Mouse and keyboard functions in HoloDeepEX

Figure 8.7.3: Review a holographic model in HoloDeepEX – Struts and building

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Figure 8.7.4: Review tieback configurations and building foundations in HoloDeepEX

Virtual Reality in Underground Construction:

Virtual reality enables us to simulate a 3D physical environment, and potentially interact with
digital objects within the virtual space. In a virtual reality set we would need to utilize a VR ready
headset. These headsets totally block off our real world view and as a result we are only immersed
in the virtual environment. VR headsets work by displaying slightly different images on the right
and left eyes and thus creating the illusion of a 3D environment. With current VR systems we can
move around our 3D model by using dedicated controllers with our hands.

HoloDeepEx can be opened through the mixed reality portal as a standard application. Initially
we are located in the lobby where we can open a file, open the last exported project or select a
demo project. When in the main view we can look at the controller tooltips where all the available
commands are displayed.

Figure 8.7.5: HoloDeepEX lobby – select to open a project

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Figure 8.7.6: Controller functions in HoloDeepEX

Figure 8.7.7: Stage navigation in HoloDeepEX

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Augmented Reality in Underground Construction:

Augmented reality works by superimposing 3D digital objects in relation to the physical world.
This works by having an augmented reality device scan a physical space and then creating an
internal digital representation of this space that the AR device understands. An augmented reality
headset is typically equipped with a series of cameras that continuously detect the real space
around us. Once digital objects are placed, the device keeps their position locked in space (unless
these objects are instructed to move). As a result, we are able to physically move around the
digital objects that we have placed in the real 3D world.

In underground construction this could involve placing existing utilities, tunnels, or future piling
in the actual field conditions before anything is being built. Alternatively, as we have done in
HoloDeepEX, a model of an excavation can be prepared and we can physically move around our
augmented reality deep excavation model.

HoloDeepEX environment can be accessed with augmented reality headsets (such as Hololens).
The glasses originally scan the environment and place the model in real space or under scale. We
can use voice commands to edit the model (move it in space, rotate it, zoom in and out, navigate
through stages and more). In addition, we can walk around and through the model and review it
from all possible angles. HoloDeepEX identifies all structural items when we target them and
provides information.

Figure 8.7.8: HoloDeepEX model viewed with augmented reality glasses

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8.8 Define Building Damage Assessment Options

Excavations are often constructed next to existing buildings that can potentially exert significant
loads on the retaining system. Thus, building loads have to be properly accounted for. Estimating
building loads can be a very time-consuming effort. DeepEX can make such estimations much
easier with the building wizard option.

In DeepEX, a building can be added on the model area as a 3D external load item. We can define
the building dimensions (X and Y direction widths, superstructure height, basement depth,
number of floors), position, number of floors, number of columns, loads per floor, walls and
footing properties and more (see section 4.24).

On the bottom of the Building Wizard dialog (Figure 8.8.1), we can define if any of the exterior
walls is continuous, as well some additional damage assessment options. We can define whether
the damage assessment will not be performed, as well as if it is going to be based on the selected
design section or an already created 3D Model (3D Frame Analysis module should be purchased
for this option to be available). The building damage assessment additional optional module is
required to perform damage assessment analysis. From the Stability+ tab of DeepEX we can select
and define the building damage calculation options (Figure 8.8.2).

Figure 8.8.1: Selection to perform building damage assessment (Building wizard)

Figure 8.8.2: Define building damage assessment calculation options

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Figure 8.8.3: Model – 2D section without building

Figure 8.4.4: Model – 2D section with building

Figure 8.8.5: Building on the 3D model area

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8.9 Review Building Damage Assessment Results

When the option to perform building damage assessment is selected (the building damage
assessment additional optional module is required), the software will calculate the settlement
and displacement below the wall because of the nearby excavation, and it will also perform the
damage assessment, calculating and presenting strains, displacements and damage categories of
all building walls, in each construction stage.

In order to perform the building damage assessment, it is important to press the button “Analyze
All Design Sections”, even if our building is in one section only.

Figure 8.9.1: Option to perform Building Damage Assessment calculations

After the analysis is performed, we can access the damage assessment results by right-clicking on
the building in the 2D section model area and select the option “Damage Assessment Results”. In
the summary table that appears, we can review the most critical results among all walls and
stages, the most critical results of each wall among all stages and the results per wall/per stage.

Figure 8.9.2: Option to open damage assessment results

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Figure 8.9.3: Results and calculated parameters (maximum values)

Figure 8.9.4: Results and calculated parameters (maximum values for each wall)

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