STABILITY ANALYSIS OF MULTIPLE-BLOCK SLIDING SURFACES

Abstract

A relatively simple vectorial method has been developed to tackle polygonal sliding surfaces involving two or more free blocks. Goodman's concept of "two-block sliding" mechanism has been adopted whereby a transfer of an interaction force is activated from an upper unstable active block to an adjacent lower stable passive block. Furthermore, Goodman's graphical approach has been automated by the vectorial method and extended to handle multiple-block sliding surfaces. The entire analysis may be carried out on a micro-computer and has been proven to be applicable to a field case study involving slope excavations in weathered sedimentary rock. © 1993.