Geotechnical Analysis
GeoFEAS 3D / GeoFEAS 2D
P
Ver.U

Geotechnical Finite element Elastoplastic Analysis Software

UWLC

P
Ver.U

Dynamic effective stress analysis for groundLEM 3D3-D slope stability analysis

VGFlow / VGFlow2DNEW

3-D seepage analysis / 2-D seepage analysis

Geotechnical analysis
support service●UWLC●GeoFEAS 3D●LEM 3D●GeoFEAS 2D●Rockfall simulation●VGFlow●VGFlow2D

Design･Analysis/ＣＡＤ＆ＶＲ

FORUM8 Co., Ltd.

GeoFEAS 3DVer.2

P
Ver.U

Geotechnical
Geotechnical Finite
Finite element
element
Elastoplastic
Analysis
Elastoplastic Analysis Software
Software

Software price US$ 9,800
Academic price US$ 4,500

3D stress deformation analysis software using Finite Element Method (FEM)
INTRODUCTION

Applicable to Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7

GeoFEAS3D stands for '3D Geotechnical Finite element Elasto-plastic Analysis Software' and it is a software for
3Dstress-deformation analysis of soil under static conditions. GeoFEAS2D is designed for 2D geotechnical analysis(including axial symmetric analysis). GeoFEAS3D is extended its performances to 3D on the same theories and soilmodels with GeoFEAS2D. Ver. 2 is enhansed with regard to modelling performance and analysis capability.

Functions and features■Model creation function
・Intersect creation function
The intersection surface between objects such as solid-solid, solid-surface,surface-surface, surface-line, and line-line can be created in Ver.2. This function
allows the creation of intersecting surfaces even if many civil structures arecrossed in multiple layers in the ground.
・Grouping function
It is more difficult to create and edit the model in 3D, compared to 2D due to theincreased number of objects in three-dimensional space. This function allows
grouping of multiple objects which have same properites in one group so thatyou can select these objects at the same time, and assign the material constantto the group.
・Display/Nondisplay function and Selection function of an objects
Display/Nondisplay function allows to display only the object that you are working
by hiding all other objects in complex 3D model. Selection function limits theselection of an object, such as member only, surface only, or solid only.
・Topographic data import function in Land XML format
3D coordinates and surface data in Land XML format can be imported.
This function allows automaticaly shaping complex surfaces without inputting apoint coordinate one by one Structures can be easily modeled based on theimported information.
■Mesh dividing
This program allows the semi-automatic division of mesh. Firstly the number ofdivisions is specified as equal interval or specified ratio for the line segments ofblock. The surface is then divided into triangles or rectangles, and the solid isdivided into tetrahedron, pentahedron, and hexahedron based on the number ofdividing line segments. The mesh re-dividing of model can be easily performed if
you change the dividing number.
■Elements library
Solid elements are used for modeling the ground in 3D analysis. This productsupports tetrahedral, hexahedral and pentahedral element.
Plane element are generally regarded a plate elements or shell elements in 3D
analysis, this program plate elements.
The interaction between ground and structures can be expressed by defining theImage samples▼Intersection creation function 1▼Mesh dividing 1▼Stress vector diagram

2▼Intersection creation function 2▼Mesh dividing 2▼Contour diagram

structural elements (plate element, beam, truss, axial spring and shear springelement), and joint elements can be specified in contact faces.
■Load and boundary condition
GeoFEAS is based on the total stress representation (not considering the soil
permeability in the current version). By considering the hydraulic pressure as
nodal load, it can evaluate the effect of water pressure on soils.
・Loads
Nodal load, uniform load, distributed load, volume load (self-weight load andstatic seismic load) are available,
・Boundary conditions
Simple nodal constrains (horizontal and vertical rollers, fixed, pin), multiple
nodal constrains (MPC, hinge), and forced displacements are available Multiple
stage analysis considering the construction steps is considerable, and thematerial constant number and boundary conditions can be changed at every
stage (phase).
■Processor
・Analysis function
The elasto-plastic analysis is the most basic method for investigating the stressand deformation behavior of the ground. It is important to set up the appropriate
analysis model, element definition, and applied structure model.
GeoFEAS supports 15 kinds of soil constitutive models; the elasto-plastic model
can express the non-linear behavior of the ground (elastic model includes NoTension analysis capability).
The deformation and stability analysis can be performed for wide variety ofproblems relating to the ground including excavated/banking area, slope stability
and bearing capacity.
・Analysis speed
Ver.2 is improved with the speed of analysis and capacity of DOF (Degrees of
freedom). It takes about 30 minute to analyze a model with 50,000 nodes per
one stage with the spec of 3Gz Core2 CPU, 3G of memory, PC.
■Post-processor
Post-processor provides the deformation diagram, contour diagram, vector
diagram, and section force distributed chart (for member). The analysis result
can be copied and pasted to other software, such as Excel, and can be exported
as a HTML or PDF file.

▼LandXML topograpic data importing 1 ▼LandXML topograpic data importing 2▼Sectionional force diagram▼Deformation diagram▼Maximum strain increment distribution diagram ▼Result output

GeoFEAS 2DVer.2

P
Ver.U

Geotechnical
Geotechnical Finite
Finite element
element
Software price US$ 6,000
Elastoplastic
Analysis
SoftwareElastoplastic Analysis Software Academic price US$ 2,000

Stress deformation analysis program of the ground with Finite Element Method (FEM)
INTRODUCTION

Applicable to Windows NT/
2000/XP/Vista/7

GeoFEAS 2D is '2D Geotechnical Finite element Elastoplastic Analysis Software'. It is the software product for stressdeformation analysis of soil under static conditions. This software conducts the powerful elasto-plastic finite element
analysis in many engineering fields such as slope stability analysis, earth retaining works excavation analysis, tunnel
design, etc. This product is designed for plane strain analysis, axisymmetric analysis in 2D Pre Post version. FEM
model can be easily created through CAD method and SXF file import is also supported.

Functions and features■Corresponding analysis models(1) Analysis type: Static total-stress analysis(2) Analysis Model : Plane strain analysis, Axisymmetric analysis(3) Support for "The Seismic Capacity Evaluation Standard for River Structures 2007" in Ver. 2■Main features(1)Stage analysis：The stage analysis, or the phased construction analysis can be
performed. It is possible to change material parameters, boundary conditions,and stress release factors at each stage.
(2)Shear strength reduction (SSR) analysis：The shear strength reduction (SSR)
analysis can be performed using three kinds of elastic-perfectly plastic
constitutive laws. It is possible to evaluate global safety factor and slip
surface by SSR analysis at each stage.
(3)Local factor of safety：It is possible to calculate the local safety factors at each Gaussian point.
(4)Coordination with seepage analysis：It is possible to use nodal water pressureloads from seepage analysis (Note: This is for the analysis using load module).
(5)Combination of stage and SSR analyses：It is possible to perform bothdeformation and stability analyses at the same time by combining stage andSSR analyses, and to deal with a wide range of soil related problems such as
filled/excavated area, slope stability, bearing capacity, etc.
(6)Mixed assignment of constitutive laws：It is possible to assign different
constitutive laws for each material.
(7) The supported contents based on "The Seismic Capacity Evaluation Standard forRiver Structures 2007": FEM analysis is available for "Pre-liquefaction", "Postliquefaction", "Settlement cased by the volume compression of liquefaction layer"■Boundary conditions
It is possible to define the following four boundary conditions.
・ Supporting point (horizontal and vertical rollers, fixed, pin, enforced displacement)
・ Multi point constraint (MPC) ・ Spring supporting point ・ Pin connection■Element libraries
2D

AxisymmetricBeam / Bar

○

-

-

Axial spring / Shear spring○-

Including spring supporting point

×

-

-

Surface Three-node triangle / Four-node quadrilateral○○Primary element for 2D axisymmetric analysis

Six-node triangle / Eight-node quadrilateral○○

Secondary element for 2D axisymmetric analysis

Four-node line joint / Six-node line joint○○

Applied between secondary surface elements for 2D

Element

CategoryLine

Torsion spring/Distributed axial spring/
Distributed shear spring

Joint

Note

▲Elastoplastic result ofEarth retaining work

■Constitutive law models(1)Constitutive law models for elements in plane strain and axisymmetricanalyses：It is possible to use the following constitutive law models forelements in plane strain and axisymmetric analyses. Linear and laminatedelasticity models can be used as no-tension materials.
Category

Elastic

Constitutive law
Linear elasticity（Isotropic） / inated elasticity（Anisotropic）
Shear rigidity reduction material1※, Shear rigidity reduction material2※

nonlinear elastic Duncan 1（Use constant Poisson ration） / Duncan 2（Define volume
coefficient） / D-min（Technique by CRIEPI）

Nonlinear

HD (Hardin-Drnevich) / RO (Ramberg-Osgood) / UW-Clay (Ugai-Wakai)

Elastic-perfectly
plastic

MC (Mohr-Coulomb) / DP (Drucker-Prager) /MC-DP (Mohr-Coulomb / Drucker-Prager)

Elasto-plastic

PZ-Sand (Pastor-Zienkiewicz) / PZ-Clay (Pastor-Zienkiewicz)

No-Tension

Linear elasticity / Laminated elasticity

Bilinear elastic

Liquefaction material※ is for "The Seismic Capacity Evaluation Standard for River Structures 2007"

Image samples▼ Tunnel excavation
analysis (Preprocessor)▼ Tunnel excavation analysis
result (Deformation figure)▼ Earth retaining excavating analysis( Preprocessor)(2)Constitutive law models for beam, bar, spring, and joint elements：It is
possible to use the following constitutive law models for beam, bar, spring,and joint elements.
■Loads・ Nodal force load (2D, axisymmetric)・ Uniform pressure load (2D, axisymmetric)・ Defined-per-node pressure load (2D, axisymmetric)・ Self weight load (2D, axisymmetric) ・ Seismic inertia load (2D)・ Nodal water pressure load (2D, axisymmetric)
GeoFEAS2D can take into account water pressure, but not soil permeability.
■Postprocessor (After-treatment)
Output analysis of processor (Analysis section) is processed.Output / confirmationof result figures and numerical values are carried out.In this program, thefollowing can be output mainly.
Model figure / Deformation figure / Vector diagram / Contour figure
Distribution map / Numeric output■Combination with the UC-1 Earth retaining work design (Option)
In Earth retaining work design, it allows examining the effect to surrounding
ground by "enforcement displacement method" which works vertical overburdenpressure on the bottom of excavation if needed, giving the FEM analysis modelthat modeled only ground to the displacement of earth retaining wall fromelastoplastic analysis as enforced displacement.

▲ Earth retaining work FEM(Input screen of the forced
displacement method)▲Earth retaining work FEM(Contour figure of the forced
displacement method)■Applicable scopeThis product is mainly applicable to the following problems.
・ Stress-deformation analysis of soil ・ Slope stability analysis
・ Earth retaining works excavation analysis
・ Analysis of surrounding soil effect by shield tunnel construction
・ NATM tunnel construction analysis
・ Study of water pressure variation effect on soil・ Study of soil-structure interaction ・ Ground response acceleration method■References
・ Potts, D., Axelsson, K., Grande, L., Schweiger, H. and Long M.:
Guidelines for the use of advanced numerical analysis, Thomas Telford, 2002.
・ Civil Engineering Design Division of Kajima Corporation : Main Points of Civil design(5), Tunnel Kajima Institute Publishing, 2003
・ T. Tanaka, K. Ugai, M. Kawamura, S. Sakajo and H. Ohtsu : Three-dimentionalelasto-plastic finite element analysis of soils, Maruzen, 1996
・ Zienkiewicz, O.C., Chan, A.H.C., Pastor, M., Schrefler, B.A. and Shiomi, S.:
Computational Geomechanics with Special Reference to Earthquake Engineering,
JOHN WILEY & SONS, 1999.
・ M. Goto : Engineering Finite Element Method - For Analysis of Large Elastic-Plastic
Deformation, Corona publishing, 1995
・ O.C. Zienkiewicz, Robert L. Taylor, translated by G. Yagawa : Matrix and finite
element method (Newly-revised version), Kagaku gijutsu Shuppan＜Ver.2.01.00 Revised information（April 10, 2009 Released）＞
1. Improvement of the list, display, and selection function in Pre part, Modification of Post part2. Import/export of "Terrain data file for geotechnical analysis" common in geotechnicalanalysis series of UC-1.

▼ Riverbank seismic self-weight ▼ Riverbank seismic self-weight deformation ▼ Slope stability analysis
deformation analysis (Model diagram)analysis (Deformation diagram, FL diagram)(Maximum strain increment)▼ Earth retaining excavating analysis result(Contour figure of an X direction)▼ Slope stability analysis(Preprocessor）

3

UWLC Ver.2

Dynamic
Dynamic effective
effective stressstressanalysisforgroundanalysis for ground

P
Ver.U

Software price US$ 5,800
Academic price US$ 2,000
Applicable to Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7

Analysis of elementary stress/dynamic analysis of the total stress /dynamic analysis of effective stress (liquefaction analysis) programThis program is to analyze dynamic land transformation using finite element method (FEM). Taking into consideration
the method of elastic theory based on effective stress, excessive pore water pressure which occurs during
earthquakes and the declining of stiffness, it is possible to calculate land transformation by the hour. This program
can be applied to investigating the stability of earth structures (banks or raised mounds), the lift of undergroundstructures, and the dynamic interrelation between an earthquake and structures. Another program with function todecide parameters in liquefaction is attached. It allows you to input in a CAD style making easy creation possible. It
also accepts reading from SXF files.

INTRODUCTION

Functions and features■Analytic features(1)It is possible to set parameters in liquefaction by carrying out simulation forelement test.
(2)Dynamic analysis program with optimized method allows the determination of
input parameter based on the experimental data.
(3)The input parameter of the sand constitutive model (PZ-sand) can be
estimated by the N value of standard penetration test results.
(4)It conducts one-dimensional and two-dimensional analyses.
(5)It is possible to carry out the dynamic analysis of total stress method and ofeffective analysis (analysis in liquefaction).
(6)Applied elements for total stress method (ignoring water pressure) andapplied elements for effective stress method (considering water pressure) canbe used in mixed situations.
(7)Dynamic analysis of earth and water successively formed on the assumptionof water penetration.
(8)Plenty of structure models of land (eight categories) are available and thesecan be used freely.
(9)It adopts BFGS, which is a line search for calculating convergence.
(10)Stable analysis by making automatic adjustment in time steps of dynamic analysis.
(11) Vertical and horizontal simultaneous vibration■Scope of application（1）Investigation of the dynamic interrelation between land and building
structures by using the total stress method.
（2）Investigation of stability at an earthquake including earth structures(riverbanks, for example).
（3）Investigation of the lift of structures in the liquid land.
(4)Effect assessment for liquefaction countermeasure work (ex. Construction
method based on structure, consolidation process, sand compaction pile method)(5)Excess pore pressure dissipation method (gravel drain method)(6)Experiment simulation including centrifugal shaking, large shaking table（7）Judgment of minute liquefaction by means of one-dimensional response
analysis during earthquakes.
Liquefaction countermeasure work examples(1)structure method (2)solidarity method (3)sand compaction pile method (4) gravel drain method)

Analysis feature
Initial stressanalysis

Total stressanalysis

Dynamic
analysis（Liquefaction analysis）

Total stressanalysis
Effective stressanalysis

Procedure of analysis model creation◆Creation of 2D FEM model with CAD operation◆CAD data importing function◆Mesh dividing (Block dividing method)◆Easy creation function for primary analysis model◆Output function for mesh data
◆Input of material parameter table

Reference"High-Standard Bank Embankment Design and Enforcement Manual"
March 2000 Foundation for River front Improvement and Restoration

Image samples▼Input image of the
pre-section▼verification analysis with
optimization method

4▼Examination of the▼Examination both of theembankment liquefaction
ground and the box culvert▼Excessive pore water pressure rate
(Analysis of two-dimensional liquefaction)■Theory of analysis
1.Element（1）Distortion element on a plain surface : It is possible to define four
elements:triangular element at three contact points,trangular element at six
contact points,quadrangular element at four contact points and quadrangularelement at eight contact points.
3

3

6

1

2

3 nodetriangular element

1

4

3

7

8

5

4

4

2

6 nodetriangular element

12

4 nodesquare element

1

3
6

5

2

8 nodesquare element（2）Beam element : It is possible to define primary beam element.
（3）Axial spring element : Definition is given at two contact points（4）Shearing spring element : Definition is given at two contact points.
（5）Mass element centered on one contact point. : Definition is given at one
contact point.
（6）Damper element : It indicates declining in the axial and shearing directions.
2. Constituent models（1）Distortion element model on a plain surface
Linear elastic model / Laminated elastic model
Elastic and complete plastic model
Modified Ramberg-Osgood model (RO model)
Modified Hardin-Drnevich model (HD model)
Ugai-Wakai model (UW-Clay model)
Pastor-Zienkiewicz model for sand (PZ-Sand model)
Pastor-Zienkiewicz model for clay (PZ-Clay model)（2）Beam element model : Linear elastic model or bilinear model can be used asstability feature in the axial direction and shearing spring element. It is also possible
to define the concentrated mass at contact points at both the ends of spring.
（3）Spring element model : As the stability characteristic of the direction of anaxis, and the shear spring element which is not carried out, an alignment
elastic model or a bilinear model is applicable.Moreover, node concentration
mass can be defined with the direction of an axis and the shear spring element
which is not carried out of this product as the both-ends node of a spring.
3.Mass matrix and damping matrix（1）Concentrated matrix and consistent matrix
In this program it is possible to choose either concentrated matrix or
consistent matrix to be applied to mass matrix and damping matrix.
Mass matrix:Concentrated mass matrix or consistent mass matrix
Damping matrix:Concentrated damping matrix or consistent damping matrix
However, you have to use consistent damping matrix if you regard Rayleighdamping as viscous damping.
（2）Rayleigh damping : Energy damping covers viscous and fugitive dampings aswell as aftereffect damping.In this program Rayleigh damping can beconsidered to be viscous damping.
4.Dynamic equation and simultaneous equation（1）Degitizing and integral calculus in dynamic equation
Explicit method:forward calculus of finite differences.
Implicit method:Newmark-βmethod/HHT-α method/WBZ-α method/Generalizedα method.
（2）Solution of simultaneous equation
This program stores into memory total rigid matrix by means of skyline
method.As solution of simultaneous equation it adopts LDLT resolving
method which is changed from Gaussian elimination.
■Representational function of the analyzed results
It supports displaying model diagram, distortion diagram, time history
diagram, drawing of characteristic force of restitution, responsive spectrum
diagram, Fourier spectrum diagram, contour diagram, diagram of cross-section
force, main stress/main distortion. It also supports representation in
animation.

▼Features of force of restitution▼Import function of the
SXF drawing data

▼Element test
simulation programLEM３D

Software price US$ 3,000
Academic price US$ 1,000

3-D
3-D slopeslope stability
stability analysis(LEM)
analysis(LEM)

Three-dimensional analysis of slope stability /program for planning countermeasure work
INTRODUCTION

Applicable to Windows NT/
2000/XP/Vista/7

Currently it is common to analyze slope stability with two-dimensional plain surface in mind, but this program will enable
you to condut stability analysis reproducing real land shapes and sliding surface in three dimensions. Three-dimensional
land shapes are designed to be displayed relatively with ease by entering plenty of cross-sectional drawings in a twodimensional method. In the process of countermeasure work it is possible to draw up a plan of piling using threedimensional deterrent force, with consideration that putting in piles can be easily put into image in a two-dimensional
way. Moreover, considering that current standards about a piling plan are intended for two-dimensional deterrent force,
this program is designed to facilitate making a plan of piling by means of two-dimensional deterrent force as well.

Functions and features■Analysis methods(1)Analysis methods: Following 3 methods are available, 2-dimensional limit
equilibrium method expanded to 3-dimensional.
・ Hovland (Hovland) method
・ Hovland (Hovland( water weight)) method
・ Simple Janbu (The Janbu method)(2)Calculation types: Following is available at both all time and earthquake.
Stability factor calculation / Back calculation method (c is fixed) / Backcalculation method (φ is fixed) / c-tanφ-related figure(3)Additional capabilities
1.Arbitrary water pressure can be considered to the landslide side (not thehydrostatic pressure from ground water, but hydraulic pressure examined
separately).
2.It supports the up and down collective movement of groundwater.
(examination of increase in pore water pressure by rainfall and the effect ofdrainage measure).
3.The deterrent of the countermeasure construction is calculated to satisfy thedesigned safety factor.The safety factor is not particularly described for the 3dimensional limit equilibrium method, but the 2 dimensions limit equilibrium
method in most design manuals.Usually when the 3-dimensional designed
safety factor (Fsp(3D)) equivalent to the 2-dimensional designed safety factor(Fsp(2D)) is used, it is necessary to estimate the designed safety factor to beslightly bigger. Therefore, it is suggested that the 3-dimensional designed
safety factor should be calculated from 2-dimensional designed safety factor,
so the additional function to set the 3-dimensional designed safety factor isequipped with this product.
■Main analysis, a list of calculation functions
ArticleAnalytical methods
The safety factor
calculation
Terrain
The Back
calculation method
Design of thecountermeasureconstruction
Additional
capabilities

Tools

DetailSimple Janbu / Hovland / Hovland(Water weight)■Applicability
Top items
landfeaturesanalysis

Middle items

Sub items

Limitnumber of landslide layers Multilayered ground correspondence

10

number of cross sections (lateral lines) －99

SXF data read in

Possible to import CAD data○

Components

Grade / Ground water table / A landslide side / A bed boundary-surface

199

Submergence terrain

Analysis is carried out to lower the groundwater level forcibly

Column partition numbers Partition numbers to x and y direction－
200■About the countermeasure construction design（1）The design calculation of the pile work by the 3-dimensional analysis (the 3dimensional deterrent) is available.
（2）The design calculation of the pile work by the 2-dimensional analysis (the 2dimensional deterrent) is available at the same time.
（3）3 types of piles, "a wedge pile", "a shear pile" and "a prevention pile" areavailable in the pile work design calculation.
（4）Examination of the most suitable pile location by the Ru-Ly curve is available.
（5）As pile arrangement, examination of a single row and a staggered arrangement
is available.
■Tools (support)（1）[SXF data import] Reading of SXF file, which CAD data support as
2-dimensional sectional input tool.
（2）[Terrain model conversion tool] the 2-dimensional cross section data or
the DEM data that terrain data of BoringCD/3D-Pro (GeoMap3D) wasconverted into can be imported to this product.
(3)[Seepage analysis result combination tool] Slope stability analysis can be
carried out, generating groundwater necessary to analyze landslide with our
product "3-dimensional Seepage FEM analysis (VG Flow)" or by using of result
analysis as regular text format even if it is another companys product.

The c φ is input to calculated the safety factor → requirement deterrent iscalculated
The number of layers (10 layers)
The c value is fixed to calculate φ. / The φ value is fixed to calculate theCo. / The φ value is fixed to calculate Ck experience value (augmentation
factor). / Making of the c -tanφ-related figure
The 3-dimensional designed safety factor is calculated from the 2dimensional designed safety factor / The 3-dimensional designed safety
factor is calculated from the 2-dimensional designed safety factor
The 3-dimensional designed safety factor is calculated from the 2-dimensional
designed safety factor / Examination at earthquake / The up and downcollective movement of groundwater / The consideration of the arbitrary
hydraulic pressure on the landslide side / Direct input and edit of DEM data
SXF data import tool
Seepage analysis result cooperation tool (SATL3D)：Tetrahedral primaryelement
Terrain model conversion tool (GMTL3D)
BoringCD/3D-Pro(GeoMap3D)�¨Section data for Lem, DEM data for LEM

Image samples▼Main window▼Setting of the terrain input area

▼Input of terrain cross section▼The pile work design calculation■Drawing, output capabilities(1)Both "course of traverse type" (Tin type) 3D" and "DEM type 3D" can bedisplayed by 3D drawing function.It allows 3D models to be exported in 3DS
format and imported in UC-win/Road.
(2)"Thrust vector diagram" and "Maximum shear resistance force figure" areavailable to be output as the 3-dimensional slope stability analysis result.
■Reference(1)Roadwork "Guideline for safety work on a slope" published March, 1999 by
Corp. Japan Road Association(2)"Guideline for planning steel pipe pile against landslide" published June, 2003
by Corp. Japan Landslide Society▼Confirmation of DEM cross section▼Result confirmation▼3D display example▼Print preview

5

3-D
3-D seepage
seepage analysis
analysis
VGFlow2D 2-D
seepageanalysis
2-D seepage analysis
NEW

VGFlow /Software price

US$ 7,300(VGFlow)、US$ 2,500(VGFlow2D)
Academic price

US$ 3,600(VGFlow)、US$ 1,000(VGFlow2D)

2D/3D Saturated/Unsaturated Seepage, Steady/Unsteady FEM Analysis Program

Applicable to Windows NT/2000/XP（VGFlow）
Windows NT/2000/XP/Vista/7（VGFlow2D）

VGFlow is saturated/unsaturated seepage analysis program using Finite Element Method (FEM). There are two typesof product VGFlow2D (2D analysis) and VGFlow3D (3D analysis) based on pre-post. Richard's equation is used for theproper saturated/unsaturated seepage analysis. This product can be used for all purposes without the limitation of
applicable scope as all topics are covered without simplifying the dominant equations for seepage phonomena. The
seepage analysis is expected to be used more often due to the increase in frequency on disaster-affected cases as aresult of the recent torrential rainfall. This program allows the simulation with FEM analysis for the increase of gap
ground water pressure which occurs in torrential rainfall.

INTRODUCTION

Functions and features■Analysis Type：Steady flow analysis / Transient flow analysis■Analysis Model：Two-dimensional horizontal plane flow model / Two-dimensionalvertical plane flow model / Axisymmetric flow model / Three-dimensional flow model■Node configurations：First-order Element : Three-node triangle element / Fournode quadrilateral element / Four-node tetrahedron element / Six-node prismelement / Eight-node hexahedron element Second-order Element : Six-nodetriangle element / Eight-node quadrilateral element / Ten-node tetrahedron
element / Fifteen-node prism element / Twenty-node hexahedron element■Boundary Conditions：This product can define the following six types of boundary
conditions and set fluctuating water level and rainfall boundaries at the same time.
・(:Steady:Unsteady) Known hydraulic head / Potential seepage face /Rainfall /Flux /Point source/(Unsteady)Fluctuating water level /Outflow forbidden■Saturated seepage characteristics：Anisotropy of water penetration factor, layer gradient.
■Unsaturated seepage characteristics：
van-Genuchten model / Direct inputs of Volumetric water contents - Suction andVolumetric water contents - Relative hydraulic conductivity■Applicable scope
1.Check of rainfall effect on road banking based on the revised civil engineering
work standard
2. Influences of rainfall and spring in large basin
3. Measures of seepage surface and water pressure distribution in river levee,
dam and reservoir
4. Design calculation of fill dam body and investigation of seepage on the groundaround reservoir
5. Investigation of permeability in the basic process including curtain grouting
6. Background calculation of reservoir body and pre-low ground around reservoir
for disaster prevention
7. Investigations of piping and boiling during excavation
8. Influences of confined groundwater
9. Analysis of water pressure distribution variations by infiltration well in landslide region
10. Investigation of seepage variation in the coffer dam construction■Applicable standard"Japanese Road Construction Guideline"- Japan Road Association"Design Standard for Railway Structures" -Railway Technical Research Institute"Construction Ministry, Technical Criteria for River Sand Control Works : Practical guidefor Design[I] (Draft plan)" -Sankaido Publishing Co., Ltd"River Bank Structure Guideline", -Japan Institute of Construction Engineering"Guideline of embankment checking and provision in the small-and-medium-sized rivers(Draft plan)" --Japan Institute of Construction Engineering"High-Standard Bank Embankment Design and Enforcement Manual" - Foundation forRiver front Improvement and Restoration"Land reform project design standard" - Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries ofJapan"All-purpose Dam Construction" - Japan Dam Engineering Center"Survey and provision of the landslide around the water reservoir" -Japan Institute ofConstruction Engineering"Disaster Prevention Control Reservoir Technical Standard (Draft plan)" -Japan River
Association

Pre-post-section Overview■2D pre-post characteristics-Creation of layer shape model from various electronic medium and drawing(AutoCAD2007or SXF format, drawing (paper information) scanning)-Common interface with FEM products of our geotechnical analysis series-Representative parameter including based on "River Bank Structure Guideline"-Unsteady analysis result with animation, easy to understand time-history-Flow net (streamline net) output with animation-Saving function of the unsteady analysis result in AVI format■2D post output capabilities
Model diagram, Contour figure(equivalent potential, equal interval water pressure,horizontal hydraulic gradient, vertical hydraulic gradient, saturation degree,
water content by volume), Contour map(streamline, flow net), Vector diagram,
Time-history diagram, Numerical value(node, element), Specified section flow
amount■3D pre-post characteristics-Creation of 3D mesh of the complicated shape as the general-purpose meshgenerator-Creation of the surface mesh of the terrain and layer surface based on DEM datawith the projection function of base surface mesh
-Editing of the surface and solid mesh after creating mesh with surface meshcrossing part divided Boolean operator and solid mesh dividing function■3D post output capabilities
Contour figure (equivalent potential, equal interval water pressure, water content
by volume), Iso surface figure (Equivalence curved surface figure),Curve plot
(Graph display of contour value), Surface figure (Display of contour distribution as
curved surface),Vector diagram, Groundwater graph, Section flow

Image samples▼2D flow net (streamline net)

▼2D Vector dialog▼2D vertical hydraulic gradient▼2D local hydraulic gradient time history▼3D water pressure contour
dialog in tunnel analysis▼ The contour figure of the hydraulicpressure of the Earthfill dam▼Phreatic surface dialog

Earth retaining FEM Package(Temporary sheathing work design /GeoFEAS2D)

6

Set Price：US$8,100
Academic：US$5,300▼Vector dialog

Slope FEM Package(Slope stability analysis /VGFlow)

Set Price：US$8,400
Academic：US$6,100

In the Earth retaining work design, it allows putting the displacement of earth
retaining wall obtained from elastoplastic analysis on the FEM analysis model thatmodeled only ground as enforced displacement. It also allows examining the effectto surrounding ground by "enforcement displacement method" which works vertical
overburden pressure on the bottom of excavation if needed. (Input data creation
function for "GeoFEAS2D", Geotechnical Finite element Elastoplastic Analysis
Software is equipped).

Slope stability analysis, Seepage FEM analysis option：It allows producing
animation of vertical 2-dimensional Saturated/ Unsaturated Seepage FEM analysis
and also analyzing slip failure depending on seepage by importing the analysis into
Slope stability analysis software. (Correspond to unsaturated Seepage Properties
described in "Guidebook for examination of river embankment construction")▲Elastoplastic analysis
with Earth retaining work

▲Slope stability analysis,
Seepage FEM analysis option▲Earth retaining work FEM(Input screen of forced
displacement method)▲Earth retaining work FEM(Contour figure of forced
displacement method)▼Seepage FEM analysis(Equipotent contour figure)▲Seepage FEM analysis(Element definition)

Geotechnical analysis support service
Engineering service to support making initial models for geotechnical analysis and FEM
INTRODUCTION

We support tedious tasks to make initial models for geotechnical analysis and especially for FEM. We provide
engineering service to evaluate the influence of liquefaction induced by an earthquake (uplift of undergroundstructures, residual displacements due to liquefaction), and to study and design countermeasures; to predict the
upward movement of water table and to evaluate its influence to the ground stability, settlement and so on; toevaluate slope stability and to quantitatively evaluate improvement after reinforcement. In this engineering service,
our technical support group and development staff back up. Three dimensional FEM analysis can be conducted in a
handy way with smooth flow from data generation to post processing and visualization of analysis results.

Examples of engineering services■ Geotechnical Finite element Elastoplastic Analysis Software （GeoFEAS）3D

NEW
Bridge pier andtunnel analysis

Pile foundation analysis
Number of nodes=2180
Number of stages=2

Number of nodes=10347
Number of stages=2●Beam elements are unused●3D ordinary model●solid model only
●2D ordinary model●Effective stress analysis●Beam elements are unused●3D ordinary model●Solid model, beam model●2D ordinary model●Effective stress analysis

About us US$ 9,120

About us US$ 5,200■ Geotechnical Finite element Elastoplastic Analysis Software (GeoFEAS)2D
Tunnel excavation analysis

Analysis of earth retaining
works in adjacent construction

Number of nodes=1260
Number of stages=6

Number of nodes=1260
Number of stages=6●Beam elements are used.
●2D ordinary model●Live load exists.
●Beam elements are used.
●2D ordinary model

About us US$ 4,330

About us US$ 4,780■ Dynamic effective stress analysis for ground (UWLC)

Box culvert

Embankment
Number of nodes=2440
Number of stages=1

Number of nodes=1103
Number of stages=1●Ground surface inclines●No surcharge load
●Only solid model●2D ordinary model●Effective stress analysi●No ground surface inclination●No surcharge load
●Solid model, beam model●2D ordinary model●Effective stress analysis

About us US$ 7,970

About us US$ 7,300■ 3-D slope stability analysis (LEM)
Number of nodes=3500
Number of stages=1■ 3D seepage analysis (VGFlow)

3D excavation
Number of nodes=18766
Number of stages=1●Water table exists●No ground surface inclination●No surcharge load
●3D ordinary model●Solid model only
●Steady analysis

About us US$ 2,560

About us US$ 11,840

FORUM 8 Training Seminar

Easy！！

Estimates on

web

FEM Analysis●GoeFEAS Seminar

Simultaneously held in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya,Fukuoka with TV conference system
CPD certification of Japan
Geotechnical Society

Introductory seminar for geotechnical engineers about dynamic FEM
analysis.Elasto-plastic theory based on effective stress, excessive
pore pressure occurrence, soil deformation by time-domain analysis.
Schedule : 9:30-16:30●UWLC Seminar

Charge : US$ 157.5
CPD certification of Japan
Geotechnical Society

Foundations of FEM analysis, data generation using Geotechnicalelasto-platic analysis GeoFEAS, methods to evaluate analysis results.

https://www2.forum8.co.jp/
jiban_estimate/html/main.htm

Schedule : 9:30-16:30

Charge : US$ 157.5●VG Flow 2D/3D Experience SeminarNEW

The seepage analysis program (VG Flow2D/3D) with pre-post function was developed as 2D FEM Software, comparably priced products as GeoFEAS2D and UWLC in geotechnical analysis series.
Schedule : 13:30-16:30

Charge : Free

◆Related Seminar●Flexible structure sluiceway design seminar●Slope stability analysis seminar●BOX culvert design seminar
Schedule : 9:30-16:30

Charge : US$ 157.5

7

FORUM 8 Design Conference report on the special lecture
We report the two special lectures on geotechnical topics presented in the first to third FORUM8 design conference in Tokyo Conference Center Shinagawa,from 2007 to 2009.

Special Lecture on Geotechnical Analysis Software SeriesSpecial Lecture on civil engineering and temporal structure works■Lecturer's profile■Lecturer's profile

Keizou Ugai (Doctor of Engineering)
Major: Geotechnical Engineering
Personal history: Master of Science and Engineering from Tokyo Institute of Technology.
Research Assistant of Civil Engineering Division, Department of Engineering at Niigata
University. Assistant Professor of Construction Engineering Division, Department ofEngineering at Gunma University. At present, Professor of Geotechnical Engineering
Research Laboratory, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Chief ofKantou Branch of Japan Landslide SocietyAwards: Contribution prize of the Japan Geotechnical Society in 1999
Excellent paper prize of the Japan Landslide Society in 2003

Cai Fei (Doctor of Engineering)
Major: Geotechnical Engineering
Personal history: Master of Engineering from Tsinghua University. Researcher in the water
resource in water resources laboratory, the Ministry of water, traffic, and electric powerindustry. Research Assistant of Civil Engineering Division, Department of Engineering at
Gunma University. At present, Assistant Professor of Construction Engineering Division,
Department of Engineering at Gunma University
Awards: Prize of the best paper in the third international conference on landslides and safety ofsocial infra-structure (Singapore) in 2002, Prize of the best presentation in theinternational symposium on subsurface water problems in ground environments, ISOKAYAMA, Prize of research encouragement in 2004, the Japan Landslide Society■"Actual condition and issue of Geotechnical Analysis"-1st Design conference
Professor Ugai is an expert of landslides with special concentration in research on landslides
during earthquakes at present. He is also engaged with FORUM8 as an advisor to review ourprograms in our Geotechnical Analysis Software Series.
He mentioned the necessity of 3D analysis with the comparison of the 2D and 3D FEM analysis to
the theoretical solution and showed examples of earth retaining excavation and bridge abutment
issue(figure1) considering the piping phenomenon occurred in the sand ground excavation.
In the presentation of "Damages by liquefaction and measures", he introduced some examplesof damages by liquefaction occurred in the 1964 Niigata earthquake and the 2004 Niigata-ken
Chuuetsu earthquake. He mentioned the necessity to simulate liquefaction phenomena using
FEM analysis (fig.2) As recent topics, he presented "Analysis example of rock slope failed
during the 2004 Niigata-ken Chuuetu earthquake", "Deformations and damages in residential
land by liquefaction occurred in the 2007 Chuuetsu-oki earthquake". He talked about thenecessity to use UWLC as dynamic analysis software for quantitatively evaluating the safety
improvement of residential land by soil improvement and reinforcement.

■"Disasters in intermediate and mountainous areas caused by recent
earthquakes in the inland region"- 2nd Design conference
He presented the latest information including the disaster-affected condition, survey condition,and mechanism with the example of Chuuetsu earthquake in Niigata prefecture, Inland
earthquake in Iwate-Miyagi prefecture, Wenchuan Earthquake in Sichuan, China.
He made special mention and pointed out that the mechanism of the large sized landslide isquite different in between Japan and China. Despite majority of the sliding soil mass consistingof earth, sand, and weathered soft rock, the slope gradient is comparatively smooth in Japan.
It consists of the weathered soft rock developed from the rift and the joint, and the slope is
steep in China.
In addition, he mentioned that the occurrence of slope failure resulted from the seismic inertial
force. The effected force after the beginning of the slope failure is the gravity and not the inertial
force. Earth, sand and the rock mass has been moved in the long distance with this effect, andwould result in large sized sediment disaster. He emphasized the importance of the numeric
simulation such as FEM (Fig.2) to solve the mechanism of the long-distance movement.

■"Ground analysis : Present situation and future development"- 3rd Design conference■"Example of slope stability calculation and future issue""- 1st Design conference
Assistant Professor Cai is engaged with the researches, such as landslide measures,liquefaction, seepage analysis, etc. through numerical analysis of soil.
He developed the most of solvers as engines for UWLC, GeoFEAS, VGFlow, LEM3D which
consist of Geotechnical Engineering Software Series. In this time, as examples of important
slope stability analysis and problems in future, he gave us a lecture on "Definition of factor ofsafety", "New back analysis", "Evaluation of total stability of residential land embankment" and"Problems in future".
As the definition of factor of safety, he mentioned factor of safety based on two kinds ofdefinition; "Ratio of sliding force on a failure surface and shear resistance" and "Reduction
factor of shear resistant constants to create the equilibrium state in a slope along a failuresurface" and the method for calculating necessary resistant forces. He also explained thedifferences in the two kinds of definition (fig.1).
As for the evaluation of total stability of residential land embankment, he noted that a moredangerous failure surface than an arc failure surface would be possibly created, using key
words, stability of embankment slope, total stability of embankment, filling valley type, andlateral filling type (fig.2) from the commentary on the guideline of deformation prediction
survey in large residential land embankment. To troubleshoot problems in future, he suggested(1) method of automatic searching a critical failure surface, (2) method to calculate factor ofsafety by the limit equilibrium state method in accordance with the standard or design
guideline with regards to the failure critical surface, which is found as a critical failure surface
by the shear resistance reduction FEM (SSR-FEM) (fig.3).
(3) new method to divide a slope into slices, uniform central angle method, to avoid someerrors due to the number of division in the uniform width method used generally, and (4)needs to use 3D slope stability analysis. We recognized some dwelling problems in arc slope
stability analysis which was assumed to have no argument about the basic idea as anevaluation method, and resolved to work for a new design method.

■"Utilization of temporary sheathing work design and FEM Analysis"- 2nd Design
conference

His themes were the safety factor assessment for the slope using elasto-plastic FEM, themethod to define the provision with the prediction of the ground liquefaction using
FEM(figure3), the resolution of the large sized landslip structure resulted by huge earthquake
using elasto-plastic FEM. He introduced the current condition that FEM analysis software(GeoFEAS, UWLC) is allowing the accurate resolution of mechanism from the high precision
analysis result and the selection of conclusive countermeasure work.Finally, he advised that itwas very important for FORUM8 to take in consideration of the needs and convenience of users
while developing FEM software.

He lectured on FEM analysis case example for earth retaining work design including "Boiling","Heaving", and "Stress and deformation calculation".
He pointed out that the analysis results using 3D seepage FEM analysis and the temporary
guideline calculations which set up the corrective coefficient for earth retaining shape werecomparatively similar. As for the stress and deformation calculation, he pointed out that it canbe matched with measured value depending on the method of giving the ground physicality
value using for FM analysis, but the judgment of the designer is very important as the groundphysicality value depends on the warp level. We would develop more products with FEM
analysis function for the design calculation with FEM.

References
・ 3D elasto-plastic finite element analysis of soil, Maruzen, 1996
・ Guide to understand elasto-plastic finite element anlysis, The Japana Geotechnical Society, 2003

References
・ 3D elasto-plastic finite element analysis of soil, Maruzen, 1996
・ Highway Earthwork Standard - Standard for Design of Temporary Structures, Japan Road Association, 1999

▲Keizou Ugai (Doctor of Engineering)▲fig.1 Case 2 abutment before construction▲Cai Fei (Doctor of Engineering)▲fig.2Soil description of analysis model (upper)▲Figure 3 : Analysis result of liquefaction▲fig.2 Basic concept for earthquake resistance design ▲fig.3 Shear resistance reduction FEM (SSR-FEM)

Head office

TEL 03-5773-1888 FAX 03-5720-5688 E-Mail

f8tokyo@forum8.co.jp

Osaka branch office

TEL 06-6882-1888 FAX 06-6882-1880 E-Mail

f8osaka@forum8.co.jp

Nagoya office

TEL 052-551-1888 FAX 052-551-1883 E-Mail f8nagoya@forum8.co.jp

Fukuoka business office TEL 092-271-1888 FAX 092-271-1902 E-Mail

FORUM8 Co., Ltd.

▲fig.1 Factor of safety of slope reinforced with anchors

f8fuku@forum8.co.jp

http://www.forum8.co.jp

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