A Multi-Method Approach to the Stability Evaluation of Excavated Slopes with Weak Interlayers: Insights  
Catastrophe Theory and Energy Principles  
[PERSON]  
1 Faculty of Land Resources Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology,  
Kumming 650500, China; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (T.D. ); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (X.Z.) [PERSON]  
2 Pangang Group Mining Co., Ltd., Panzhihua 617063, China; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (X.P); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (J.S. ); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (D.W.); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (S.Z)  
[PERSON]  
1 Faculty of Land Resources Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology,  
Kumming 650500, China; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (T.D. ); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (X.Z.) [PERSON]  
1 Faculty of Land Resources Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology,  
Kumming 650500, China; [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (T.D. ); [EMAIL_ADDRESS] (X.  
conditions of the mining area, whereas external factors encompass mining techniques, blasting activities, seismic events, rainfall, and the geometry of the final slope height and toe. The intricate interplay among these factors renders slope stability a multifaceted challenge requiring comprehensive and meticulous analysis [3, 4]. The characteristics and influencing mechanisms of high and steep slopes in mining operations contribute to the inherent complexity and long-term nature of their stability assessments, a concern that is particularly critical in deep open-pit mines. [PERSON] et al. [5] developed a numerical model for the lower section extension of an open-pit mine using FLAC3D. Through excavation, slope cutting, and the implementation of support measures--including anchor bolts, anchor cables, and shotcrete--the safety factor of the northwest slope was significantly enhanced. Similarly, [PERSON] [6] employed the finite difference method using FLAC3D to conduct a numerical analysis. Based on the simulation results and site-specific construction conditions, the optimal length of prestressed anchor cables was determined. Subsequent monitoring confirmed that the slope optimization measures achieved the intended stabilization outcomes. The study of slope stability has undergone significant evolution, progressing from classical rigid-plastic models in soil mechanics to investigations of actual failure mechanisms, and more recently, to the application of numerical simulations and advanced technologies [7, 8]. At present, a wide range of research methodologies are available, with numerical simulation techniques--such as the Finite Element Method (FEM), Discrete Element Method (DEM), and Finite Difference Method (FDM)--being extensively applied in landslide stability assessments [9, 10, 11, 12]. These techniques enable the simulation of variations in stress fields, displacement fields, and seepage fields under complex conditions, providing robust support for stability analysis. However, traditional monitoring methods, such as displacement and stress measurements, are increasingly inadequate for meeting the requirements of high-precision, real-time monitoring [13]. As a result, emerging technologies--including GPS-based monitoring, drone surveillance, and radar interferometry--are being progressively adopted in landslide monitoring [14]. These technologies facilitate real-time, continuous, and high-precision data acquisition, thereby offering critical support for stability evaluation and early warning systems. Analytical methods for landslide stability, based on theoretical frameworks such as limit equilibrium theory and elastoplastic theory, have been continuously developed and refined. Concurrently, emerging approaches--including fuzzy logic, grey system theory, expert systems, and neural networks--have been incorporated into landslide stability research [15, 16, 17]. Nevertheless, several limitations persist. The limit equilibrium method idealizes soil as a rigid body, failing to accurately represent its granular nature.