Generalized slope stability analysis: Interpretation, modification, and comparison

The results of a generalized variational slope stability analysis, which is rigorous in the framework of limit equilibrium, are presented. To alleviate possible intimidation due to the abstract nature of the variational analysis, interpretation is provided showing this analysis to be equivalent, in principle, to traditional rigorous limit equilibrium methods. The variational approach, however, is more efficient in the sense that no guessing of a force-related function is needed to obtain a statically determinate problem, nor is it necessary to assess the results for static reasonableness. Consequently, its application is simpler than other rigorous methods. A simple yet efficient numerical scheme, requiring the solution of only three simultaneous nonlinear equations, is illustrated. All the algorithms necessary to assemble a computer program are explicitly given. Several complex problems are analyzed, comparing the results with the predictions of the Morgenstern-Price and Janbu methods. This comparative study indicates the applicability of the variational analysis, suggesting it is on par with other rigorous methods.