Revolutionizing Ground Investigation with Automated Data Management Tools

Ground investigation is the foundational process for understanding subsurface conditions critical to construction and mining projects. Traditional data acquisition methods, including borehole logging, in-situ testing, and laboratory testing, generate extensive datasets that are often fragmented and difficult to integrate. The inability to seamlessly combine and analyze these datasets limits the accuracy of ground models, increasing the risks associated with geotechnical design and construction.

DAARWIN, a platform developed by SAALG Geomechanics, addresses these challenges by providing a comprehensive digital framework for ground investigation data management. By centralizing data from borehole logs, in-situ testing, and laboratory results, DAARWIN enables the creation of unified digital ground models. Its analytical tools, including sensitivity analysis and real-time backanalysis, enhance the precision of geotechnical models.

Methodology

The methodology focuses exclusively on DAARWIN’s approach to ground investigation. The key components include:

Ground Investigation Data Management:

• Transformation of raw geotechnical data from borehole logs, in-situ tests, and laboratory results into structured digital formats.

• Classification of geological units and accurate representation of the ground model.

• Automated characterization of material parameters for constitutive models.
  

Sensitivity Analysis:

• High-performance cloud computing to evaluate the impact of geotechnical parameters on ground models. Identification of critical parameters through the execution of multiple calculations.

• Optimization of ground models by refining influential parameters.
  

Real-Time Back-Analysis:

• Calibration of ground models using genetic algorithms based on real-time monitoring data.

• Continuous comparison between numerical predictions and observed data for improved accuracy.

• Adaptive model refinement ensuring reliable predictions during ground investigation.
  

Data Digitization and Integration:

• Conversion of historical ground investigation data into structured formats.

• Enhanced accessibility of legacy data for improved site characterization.
  

Results

The implementation of DAARWIN demonstrates improvements in:

• Data Accessibility: Centralized management of borehole logs, laboratory tests, and in-situ data.

• Digital Ground Modeling: Improved accuracy through automated parameter characterization and real-time calibration.

• Computational Efficiency: Accelerated processing of sensitivity analysis and back-analysis.

• Predictive Accuracy: Enhanced model reliability through real-time adjustments.

• Legacy Data Integration: Improved utilization of historical data for comprehensive site characterization.
  

DAARWIN’s automated tools for ground investigation improve accuracy and efficiency by integrating sensitivity analysis and real-time back-analysis into a unified framework. The platform’s ability to continuously refine ground models based on observed data provides a dynamic approach to site characterization. Challenges related to data standardization and integration are also addressed.

Offers a transformative approach to ground investigation by providing accurate, efficient, and adaptable tools for data management and analysis. Its high-performance computing capabilities enhance predictive modeling, making it a valuable tool for ground investigation in construction and mining.