7.2 - The observational method and case studies

Question 1

Geological model

Answer 1

A spatial distribution of materials that characterizes the rock mass from a geological perspective.
The purpose is to predict behavior of different designs and counter any unawareness of ground conditions and provide a broad ground picture.

Question 2

Pecks observational method

Answer 2

1. Sufficient Investigation
2. Find: most likely and (reasonable) worst case conditions
3. Design based on most likely conditions
4. Choose data to observe - calculate most likely values
5. Calculate (reasonable) worst case values
6. Develop contingency plans
7. Observe data
8. Modify design as needed