Analysis Type
In RocPlane, wedge stability can be assessed using either:
The Analysis Type can be selected in the Project Settings dialog. The required input data and analysis results depend upon the currently selected Analysis Type as summarized below.
Deterministic Analysis
In a Deterministic analysis it is assumed that all input parameters are "exactly" known (e.g., wedge plane orientations, shear strength, etc). RocPlane computes the Factor of Safety for a single wedge. See Overview of a Deterministic Analysis in RocPlane for more information.
Sensitivity Analysis
If the Analysis Type = Deterministic, it is also possible to perform Sensitivity analysis (i.e., individual parameters can be varied between minimum and maximum values, and the Factor of Safety is calculated for each value and plotted). See Overview of a Sensitivity Analysis in RocPlane for more information.
Probabilistic Analysis
In a Probabilistic analysis, statistical information can be entered to account for uncertainty in joint orientation, shear strength, and other parameters. This results in a Factor of Safety distribution from which a Probability of Failure is calculated. See Overview of a Probabilistic Analysis in RocPlane for more information.