A numerical technique of the target-region locating (TRL) solver in conjunction with the wave-front method is presented for the application of the finite element method (FEM) for 3-D electromagnetic computation. F...A numerical technique of the target-region locating (TRL) solver in conjunction with the wave-front method is presented for the application of the finite element method (FEM) for 3-D electromagnetic computation. First, the principle of TRL technique is described. Then, the availability of TRL solver for nonlinear application is particularly discussed demonstrating that this solver can be easily used while still remaining great efficiency. The implementation on how to apply this technique in FEM based on magnetic vector potential (MVP) is also introduced. Finally, a numerical example of 3-D magnetostatic modeling using the TRL solver and FEMLAB is given. It shows that a huge computer resource can be saved by employing the new solver.展开更多
In this paper, unconventional quasi-conforming finite element approximation for a fourth order variational inequality with displacement obstacle is considered, the optimal order of error estimate O(h) is obtained whic...In this paper, unconventional quasi-conforming finite element approximation for a fourth order variational inequality with displacement obstacle is considered, the optimal order of error estimate O(h) is obtained which is as same as that of the conventional finite elements.展开更多
A type of 3 node triangular element is constructed by the Quasi-conforming method, which may be used to solve the equation of a type of inverse problem of wave propagation after Laplace transformation △u-A^2u=0. The ...A type of 3 node triangular element is constructed by the Quasi-conforming method, which may be used to solve the equation of a type of inverse problem of wave propagation after Laplace transformation △u-A^2u=0. The strains in the element are approximated by an expohential function and the string-net function between neigh- bouring elements is apporoximated by one dimensional general solution of the equation. Furthermore the strain field satisfies the equation, and therefore in the derivation of the element formulation, no shape function is needed. In this sense, it is a kind of hybrid element. Compared with the ordinary linear triangular element, the new one features higher precision with coarse meshes. Some numerical tests are presented.展开更多
This thorough review explores the complexities of geotechnical engineering, emphasizing soil-structure interaction (SSI). The investigation centers on sheet pile design, examining two primary methodologies: Limit Equi...This thorough review explores the complexities of geotechnical engineering, emphasizing soil-structure interaction (SSI). The investigation centers on sheet pile design, examining two primary methodologies: Limit Equilibrium Methods (LEM) and Soil-Structure Interaction Methods (SSIM). While LEM methods, grounded in classical principles, provide valuable insights for preliminary design considerations, they may encounter limitations in addressing real-world complexities. In contrast, SSIM methods, including the SSI-SR approach, introduce precision and depth to the field. By employing numerical techniques such as Finite Element (FE) and Finite Difference (FD) analyses, these methods enable engineers to navigate the dynamics of soil-structure interaction. The exploration extends to SSI-FE, highlighting its essential role in civil engineering. By integrating Finite Element analysis with considerations for soil-structure interaction, the SSI-FE method offers a holistic understanding of how structures dynamically interact with their geotechnical environment. Throughout this exploration, the study dissects critical components governing SSIM methods, providing engineers with tools to navigate the intricate landscape of geotechnical design. The study acknowledges the significance of the Mohr-Coulomb constitutive model while recognizing its limitations, and guiding practitioners toward informed decision-making in geotechnical analyses. As the article concludes, it underscores the importance of continuous learning and innovation for the future of geotechnical engineering. With advancing technology and an evolving understanding of soil-structure interaction, the study remains committed to ensuring the safety, stability, and efficiency of geotechnical structures through cutting-edge design and analysis techniques.展开更多
The basic idea of quasi-conforming method is that the strain-dis-placement equations are weakened as well as the equilibrium equations.In this paper,an 18-DOF triangular element for couple stress theory is proposed wi...The basic idea of quasi-conforming method is that the strain-dis-placement equations are weakened as well as the equilibrium equations.In this paper,an 18-DOF triangular element for couple stress theory is proposed within the framework of quasi-conforming technique.The formulation starts from truncated Taylor expansion of strains and appropriate interpolation functions are chosen to calculate strain integration.This element satisfies C0 continuity with second order accuracy and weak C1 continuity simultaneously.Numerical examples demonstrate that the proposed model can pass the C0??1 patch test and has high accuracy.The element does not exhibit extra zero energy modes and can capture the scale effects of microstructure.展开更多
Based on the strain formulation of the quasi-conforming finite element, displacement functions are constructed which have definite physical meaning, and a conclusion can be obtained that the coefficients of the consta...Based on the strain formulation of the quasi-conforming finite element, displacement functions are constructed which have definite physical meaning, and a conclusion can be obtained that the coefficients of the constant and the linear strain are uniquely determined, and the quasi-conforming finite element method is convergent to constant strain. There are different methods for constructing the rigid displacement items, and different methods correspond to different order node errors, and this is different from ordinary displacement method finite element.展开更多
The nonlinear quasi-conforming FEM is presented based on the basic concept of the quasi- -conforming finite element. First, the incremental principle of stationary potential energy is discussed, Then, the formulation ...The nonlinear quasi-conforming FEM is presented based on the basic concept of the quasi- -conforming finite element. First, the incremental principle of stationary potential energy is discussed, Then, the formulation process of the nonlinear quasi-conforming FEM is given. Lastly, two computational examples of shells are given.展开更多
Nonlinear solution of reinforced concrete structures, particularly complete load-deflection response, requires tracing of the equilibrium path and proper treatment of the limit and bifurcation points. In this regard, ...Nonlinear solution of reinforced concrete structures, particularly complete load-deflection response, requires tracing of the equilibrium path and proper treatment of the limit and bifurcation points. In this regard, ordinary solution techniques lead to instability near the limit points and also have problems in case of snap-through and snap-back. Thus they fail to predict the complete load-displacement response. The arc-length method serves the purpose well in principle, received wide acceptance in finite element analysis, and has been used extensively. However modifications to the basic idea are vital to meet the particular needs of the analysis. This paper reviews some of the recent developments of the method in the last two decades, with particular emphasis on nonlinear finite element analysis of reinforced concrete structures.展开更多
This paper proposed an innovative teaching approach based on finite element technique(FET)to improve the understanding of material mechanics.A teaching experiment was conducted using pure bending deformation of a beam...This paper proposed an innovative teaching approach based on finite element technique(FET)to improve the understanding of material mechanics.A teaching experiment was conducted using pure bending deformation of a beam as an example,and the deformation and stress distribution of the beam were analyzed using FET.The results showed that using color stress nephograms and color U nephograms can improve students’learning outcomes in mechanics classroom.The high levels of satisfaction and interest in incorporating new techniques into the classroom suggest that there is a need to explore and develop innovative teaching methods in mechanics and related fields.This approach may inspire educators to develop more effective ways of teaching material mechanics,and our research can contribute to the advancement of mechanics education.展开更多
Methods that can efficiently model the effects of rock joints on rock mass behavior can be beneficial in rock engineering. The suitability of equivalent rock mass(ERM) technique based upon particle methods is investig...Methods that can efficiently model the effects of rock joints on rock mass behavior can be beneficial in rock engineering. The suitability of equivalent rock mass(ERM) technique based upon particle methods is investigated. The ERM methodology is first validated by comparing calculated and experimental data of lab triaxial compression test on a set of cylindrical rock mass samples, each containing a single joint oriented in various dip angles. The simulated results are then used to study the stress-strain nonlinearity and failure mechanism as a function of the joint dip angle and confining stress. The anisotropy and size effects are also investigated by using multi-scale cubic ERM models subjected to triaxial compression test. The deformation and failure behavior are found to be influenced by joint degradation, the micro-crack formation in the intact rock, the interaction between two joints, and the interactions of micro-cracks and joints.展开更多
Thermal simulation test, TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) and nanobeamEDS (Energy Dispersed x-ray Spectrum) techniques were used to investigate the precipitation behaviorof Nb, Ti, Mo etc. in HSLA (High Strength...Thermal simulation test, TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) and nanobeamEDS (Energy Dispersed x-ray Spectrum) techniques were used to investigate the precipitation behaviorof Nb, Ti, Mo etc. in HSLA (High Strength Low Alloy) steel. The strain induced precipitationoccurred during the isothermal relaxation stage after deformed in the non-recrystallizationtemperature region. After 30% predeformation at 850 and 900℃, there are two kinds of particles,(Ti,Nb)(C,N) and a few Nb(C,N), to precipitate during holding. The content of Nb in particles riseswith the relaxation time increasing. During the final holding stage, some Nb and Ti atoms in thelattice sites of the precipitates would be replaced by Mo atoms, and the Mo content in theprecipitates increases with the relaxation time. The results were compared with the refinementeffect of microstructures caused by relaxation-precipitation controlling transformation (RPC)processing.展开更多
Mining operation, especially underground coal mining, always has the remarkable risks of ground control. Passive seismic velocity tomography based on simultaneous iterative reconstructive technique (SIRT) inversion ...Mining operation, especially underground coal mining, always has the remarkable risks of ground control. Passive seismic velocity tomography based on simultaneous iterative reconstructive technique (SIRT) inversion is used to deduce the stress redistribution around the longwall mining panel. The mining-induced microseismic events were recorded by mounting an array of receivers on the surface, above the active panel. After processing and filtering the seismic data, the three-dimensional tomography images of the p-wave velocity variations by SIRT passive seismic velocity tomography were provided. To display the velocity changes on coal seam level and subsequently to infer the stress redistribution, these three-dimensional tomograms into the coal seam level were sliced. In addition, the boundary element method (BEM) was used to simulate the stress redistribution. The results show that the inferred stresses from the passive seismic tomograms are conformed to numerical models and theoretical concept of the stress redistribution around the longwall panel. In velocity tomograms, the main zones of the stress redistribution arotmd the panel, including front and side abutment pressures, and gob stress are obvious and also the movement of stress zones along the face advancement is evident. Moreover, the effect of the advance rate of the face on the stress redistribution is demonstrated in tomography images. The research result proves that the SIRT passive seismic velocity tomography has an ultimate potential for monitoring the changes of stress redistribution around the longwall mining panel continuously and subsequently to improve safety of mining operations.展开更多
A reduced-order extrapolation algorithm based on Crank-Nicolson least-squares mixed finite element (CNLSMFE) formulation and proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) technique for two-dimensional (2D) Sobolev equat...A reduced-order extrapolation algorithm based on Crank-Nicolson least-squares mixed finite element (CNLSMFE) formulation and proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) technique for two-dimensional (2D) Sobolev equations is established. The error estimates of the reduced-order CNLSMFE solutions and the implementation for the reduced-order extrapolation algorithm are provided. A numerical example is used to show that the results of numerical computations are consistent with theoretical conclusions. Moreover, it is shown that the reduced-order extrapolation algorithm is feasible and efficient for seeking numerical solutions to 2D Sobolev equations.展开更多
Non- focused ion beams may be employed to investigate the surface profile and the shape of microscopic objects or periodic surfaces by using the known stopping powers of ions in solids. The energy spectra of the scatt...Non- focused ion beams may be employed to investigate the surface profile and the shape of microscopic objects or periodic surfaces by using the known stopping powers of ions in solids. The energy spectra of the scattered or reaction ions are recorded as a function of the angles between the beam, the object and the detector, and of the energy of incident ions. The shape parameters may then be determined using computer codes. Presented also are the typical experimental results.展开更多
The present study aims to monitor and assess the water quality of the Bezerra River located in the Western Brazilian Parana state. For the monitoring of river waters, six samplings were established per month during on...The present study aims to monitor and assess the water quality of the Bezerra River located in the Western Brazilian Parana state. For the monitoring of river waters, six samplings were established per month during one year. As indicators of the water quality, physico-chemical parameters such as water temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and COD (chemical oxygen demand) were chosen, as well as trace and majority element concentrations. It is noteworthy that the mean annual values of conductivity, turbidity and COD have progressively increased along the river with maximum values after the Cascavel western sewage treatment plant. Only 13 elements were found in the six collection points, but the metallic elements Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn have shown concentrations above the maximum limits recommended by Brazilian environmental legislation, suggesting the presence of highly polluting anthropogenic sources. Correlation analyses were used to determine the spatio-variability of water quality variables. The six collection sites were grouped into two clusters, with the element composition in the first cluster (sites 1, 2 and 6) being due to strong anthropogenic activities. The study of the Bezerra River water quality could help to develop municipal environmental policies and help with the management of water conservation in the Bezerra River basin.展开更多
In recent years, finite element analyses have increasingly been utilized for slope stability problems. In comparison to limit equilibrium methods, numerical analyses do not require any definition of the failure mechan...In recent years, finite element analyses have increasingly been utilized for slope stability problems. In comparison to limit equilibrium methods, numerical analyses do not require any definition of the failure mechanism a priori and enable the determination of the safety level more accurately. The paper compares the performances of strength reduction finite element analysis(SRFEA) with finite element limit analysis(FELA), whereby the focus is related to non-associated plasticity. Displacement-based finite element analyses using a strength reduction technique suffer from numerical instabilities when using non-associated plasticity, especially when dealing with high friction angles but moderate dilatancy angles. The FELA on the other hand provides rigorous upper and lower bounds of the factor of safety(FoS) but is restricted to associated flow rules. Suggestions to overcome this problem, proposed by Davis(1968), lead to conservative FoSs; therefore, an enhanced procedure has been investigated. When using the modified approach, both the SRFEA and the FELA provide very similar results. Further studies highlight the advantages of using an adaptive mesh refinement to determine FoSs. Additionally, it is shown that the initial stress field does not affect the FoS when using a Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion.展开更多
基金Open Funds of State Key Laboratory of MillimeterWaves,China (No. K200401), Outstanding Teaching and ResearchAwards for Young Teachers of Nanjing Normal University (No.1320BL51)
文摘A numerical technique of the target-region locating (TRL) solver in conjunction with the wave-front method is presented for the application of the finite element method (FEM) for 3-D electromagnetic computation. First, the principle of TRL technique is described. Then, the availability of TRL solver for nonlinear application is particularly discussed demonstrating that this solver can be easily used while still remaining great efficiency. The implementation on how to apply this technique in FEM based on magnetic vector potential (MVP) is also introduced. Finally, a numerical example of 3-D magnetostatic modeling using the TRL solver and FEMLAB is given. It shows that a huge computer resource can be saved by employing the new solver.
基金This research is supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (10171092), Foundation of Oversea Scholar of China, Project of Creative Engineering of Henan Province and Natural Science Foundation of Henan Province of China.
文摘In this paper, unconventional quasi-conforming finite element approximation for a fourth order variational inequality with displacement obstacle is considered, the optimal order of error estimate O(h) is obtained which is as same as that of the conventional finite elements.
基金The project is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘A type of 3 node triangular element is constructed by the Quasi-conforming method, which may be used to solve the equation of a type of inverse problem of wave propagation after Laplace transformation △u-A^2u=0. The strains in the element are approximated by an expohential function and the string-net function between neigh- bouring elements is apporoximated by one dimensional general solution of the equation. Furthermore the strain field satisfies the equation, and therefore in the derivation of the element formulation, no shape function is needed. In this sense, it is a kind of hybrid element. Compared with the ordinary linear triangular element, the new one features higher precision with coarse meshes. Some numerical tests are presented.
文摘This thorough review explores the complexities of geotechnical engineering, emphasizing soil-structure interaction (SSI). The investigation centers on sheet pile design, examining two primary methodologies: Limit Equilibrium Methods (LEM) and Soil-Structure Interaction Methods (SSIM). While LEM methods, grounded in classical principles, provide valuable insights for preliminary design considerations, they may encounter limitations in addressing real-world complexities. In contrast, SSIM methods, including the SSI-SR approach, introduce precision and depth to the field. By employing numerical techniques such as Finite Element (FE) and Finite Difference (FD) analyses, these methods enable engineers to navigate the dynamics of soil-structure interaction. The exploration extends to SSI-FE, highlighting its essential role in civil engineering. By integrating Finite Element analysis with considerations for soil-structure interaction, the SSI-FE method offers a holistic understanding of how structures dynamically interact with their geotechnical environment. Throughout this exploration, the study dissects critical components governing SSIM methods, providing engineers with tools to navigate the intricate landscape of geotechnical design. The study acknowledges the significance of the Mohr-Coulomb constitutive model while recognizing its limitations, and guiding practitioners toward informed decision-making in geotechnical analyses. As the article concludes, it underscores the importance of continuous learning and innovation for the future of geotechnical engineering. With advancing technology and an evolving understanding of soil-structure interaction, the study remains committed to ensuring the safety, stability, and efficiency of geotechnical structures through cutting-edge design and analysis techniques.
基金the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(DUT14RC(3)092)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.11272075,11472071).
文摘The basic idea of quasi-conforming method is that the strain-dis-placement equations are weakened as well as the equilibrium equations.In this paper,an 18-DOF triangular element for couple stress theory is proposed within the framework of quasi-conforming technique.The formulation starts from truncated Taylor expansion of strains and appropriate interpolation functions are chosen to calculate strain integration.This element satisfies C0 continuity with second order accuracy and weak C1 continuity simultaneously.Numerical examples demonstrate that the proposed model can pass the C0??1 patch test and has high accuracy.The element does not exhibit extra zero energy modes and can capture the scale effects of microstructure.
文摘Based on the strain formulation of the quasi-conforming finite element, displacement functions are constructed which have definite physical meaning, and a conclusion can be obtained that the coefficients of the constant and the linear strain are uniquely determined, and the quasi-conforming finite element method is convergent to constant strain. There are different methods for constructing the rigid displacement items, and different methods correspond to different order node errors, and this is different from ordinary displacement method finite element.
文摘The nonlinear quasi-conforming FEM is presented based on the basic concept of the quasi- -conforming finite element. First, the incremental principle of stationary potential energy is discussed, Then, the formulation process of the nonlinear quasi-conforming FEM is given. Lastly, two computational examples of shells are given.
文摘Nonlinear solution of reinforced concrete structures, particularly complete load-deflection response, requires tracing of the equilibrium path and proper treatment of the limit and bifurcation points. In this regard, ordinary solution techniques lead to instability near the limit points and also have problems in case of snap-through and snap-back. Thus they fail to predict the complete load-displacement response. The arc-length method serves the purpose well in principle, received wide acceptance in finite element analysis, and has been used extensively. However modifications to the basic idea are vital to meet the particular needs of the analysis. This paper reviews some of the recent developments of the method in the last two decades, with particular emphasis on nonlinear finite element analysis of reinforced concrete structures.
文摘This paper proposed an innovative teaching approach based on finite element technique(FET)to improve the understanding of material mechanics.A teaching experiment was conducted using pure bending deformation of a beam as an example,and the deformation and stress distribution of the beam were analyzed using FET.The results showed that using color stress nephograms and color U nephograms can improve students’learning outcomes in mechanics classroom.The high levels of satisfaction and interest in incorporating new techniques into the classroom suggest that there is a need to explore and develop innovative teaching methods in mechanics and related fields.This approach may inspire educators to develop more effective ways of teaching material mechanics,and our research can contribute to the advancement of mechanics education.
基金Projects(51074014,51174014) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘Methods that can efficiently model the effects of rock joints on rock mass behavior can be beneficial in rock engineering. The suitability of equivalent rock mass(ERM) technique based upon particle methods is investigated. The ERM methodology is first validated by comparing calculated and experimental data of lab triaxial compression test on a set of cylindrical rock mass samples, each containing a single joint oriented in various dip angles. The simulated results are then used to study the stress-strain nonlinearity and failure mechanism as a function of the joint dip angle and confining stress. The anisotropy and size effects are also investigated by using multi-scale cubic ERM models subjected to triaxial compression test. The deformation and failure behavior are found to be influenced by joint degradation, the micro-crack formation in the intact rock, the interaction between two joints, and the interactions of micro-cracks and joints.
基金This work was financially supported by the national key basic research and development program of China (No.G1998061507).
文摘Thermal simulation test, TEM (Transmission Electron Microscope) and nanobeamEDS (Energy Dispersed x-ray Spectrum) techniques were used to investigate the precipitation behaviorof Nb, Ti, Mo etc. in HSLA (High Strength Low Alloy) steel. The strain induced precipitationoccurred during the isothermal relaxation stage after deformed in the non-recrystallizationtemperature region. After 30% predeformation at 850 and 900℃, there are two kinds of particles,(Ti,Nb)(C,N) and a few Nb(C,N), to precipitate during holding. The content of Nb in particles riseswith the relaxation time increasing. During the final holding stage, some Nb and Ti atoms in thelattice sites of the precipitates would be replaced by Mo atoms, and the Mo content in theprecipitates increases with the relaxation time. The results were compared with the refinementeffect of microstructures caused by relaxation-precipitation controlling transformation (RPC)processing.
文摘Mining operation, especially underground coal mining, always has the remarkable risks of ground control. Passive seismic velocity tomography based on simultaneous iterative reconstructive technique (SIRT) inversion is used to deduce the stress redistribution around the longwall mining panel. The mining-induced microseismic events were recorded by mounting an array of receivers on the surface, above the active panel. After processing and filtering the seismic data, the three-dimensional tomography images of the p-wave velocity variations by SIRT passive seismic velocity tomography were provided. To display the velocity changes on coal seam level and subsequently to infer the stress redistribution, these three-dimensional tomograms into the coal seam level were sliced. In addition, the boundary element method (BEM) was used to simulate the stress redistribution. The results show that the inferred stresses from the passive seismic tomograms are conformed to numerical models and theoretical concept of the stress redistribution around the longwall panel. In velocity tomograms, the main zones of the stress redistribution arotmd the panel, including front and side abutment pressures, and gob stress are obvious and also the movement of stress zones along the face advancement is evident. Moreover, the effect of the advance rate of the face on the stress redistribution is demonstrated in tomography images. The research result proves that the SIRT passive seismic velocity tomography has an ultimate potential for monitoring the changes of stress redistribution around the longwall mining panel continuously and subsequently to improve safety of mining operations.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(11271127)Science Research Projectof Guizhou Province Education Department(QJHKYZ[2013]207)
文摘A reduced-order extrapolation algorithm based on Crank-Nicolson least-squares mixed finite element (CNLSMFE) formulation and proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) technique for two-dimensional (2D) Sobolev equations is established. The error estimates of the reduced-order CNLSMFE solutions and the implementation for the reduced-order extrapolation algorithm are provided. A numerical example is used to show that the results of numerical computations are consistent with theoretical conclusions. Moreover, it is shown that the reduced-order extrapolation algorithm is feasible and efficient for seeking numerical solutions to 2D Sobolev equations.
基金Project was supported by Union Analysis Testing Foundation of Zhong Guan Cun
文摘Non- focused ion beams may be employed to investigate the surface profile and the shape of microscopic objects or periodic surfaces by using the known stopping powers of ions in solids. The energy spectra of the scattered or reaction ions are recorded as a function of the angles between the beam, the object and the detector, and of the energy of incident ions. The shape parameters may then be determined using computer codes. Presented also are the typical experimental results.
文摘The present study aims to monitor and assess the water quality of the Bezerra River located in the Western Brazilian Parana state. For the monitoring of river waters, six samplings were established per month during one year. As indicators of the water quality, physico-chemical parameters such as water temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen and COD (chemical oxygen demand) were chosen, as well as trace and majority element concentrations. It is noteworthy that the mean annual values of conductivity, turbidity and COD have progressively increased along the river with maximum values after the Cascavel western sewage treatment plant. Only 13 elements were found in the six collection points, but the metallic elements Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn have shown concentrations above the maximum limits recommended by Brazilian environmental legislation, suggesting the presence of highly polluting anthropogenic sources. Correlation analyses were used to determine the spatio-variability of water quality variables. The six collection sites were grouped into two clusters, with the element composition in the first cluster (sites 1, 2 and 6) being due to strong anthropogenic activities. The study of the Bezerra River water quality could help to develop municipal environmental policies and help with the management of water conservation in the Bezerra River basin.
文摘In recent years, finite element analyses have increasingly been utilized for slope stability problems. In comparison to limit equilibrium methods, numerical analyses do not require any definition of the failure mechanism a priori and enable the determination of the safety level more accurately. The paper compares the performances of strength reduction finite element analysis(SRFEA) with finite element limit analysis(FELA), whereby the focus is related to non-associated plasticity. Displacement-based finite element analyses using a strength reduction technique suffer from numerical instabilities when using non-associated plasticity, especially when dealing with high friction angles but moderate dilatancy angles. The FELA on the other hand provides rigorous upper and lower bounds of the factor of safety(FoS) but is restricted to associated flow rules. Suggestions to overcome this problem, proposed by Davis(1968), lead to conservative FoSs; therefore, an enhanced procedure has been investigated. When using the modified approach, both the SRFEA and the FELA provide very similar results. Further studies highlight the advantages of using an adaptive mesh refinement to determine FoSs. Additionally, it is shown that the initial stress field does not affect the FoS when using a Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion.