course-details-portlet

TBA5100

Theoretical Soil Mechanics

Credits 7.5
Level Second degree level
Course start Autumn 2019
Duration 1 semester
Language of instruction English
Location Trondheim
Examination arrangement Written examination

About

About the course

Course content

Theoretical background for the calculation methods used in geotechnical engineering. Relevant stress fields based on the theory of plasticity, basic elements and combinations. Principles for performing short-hand calculations of settlements, slope stability, earth pressure and bearing capacity of foundations and piles.
The course aims at creating understanding through classical analysing tools and hand calculations and through demonstrations of real design cases.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:
The candidate should have knowledge of:
- The basics of stress-fields in soil bodies, based on the theory of plasticity
- How to derive design formulas for classical geotechnical problems like earth pressure and bearing capacity thus creating an understanding of the basis for the formulas in use
- Analyzing slope stability and calculating the factor of safety as well as the average stress situation along the critical shear surface
- How to use Stability Charts for quick introductory estimates of the stability of a slope and the average stress levels to concentrate on
- Estimating settlements based on the oedometric (constraint) stiffness modulus.

Skills:
The candidate is able to:
- Use design formulas, with confidence, being aware of the basic assumptions inherent.
- Handle geotechnical problems like settlement, bearing capacity, earth pressure, slope stability, static capacity and driveability of piles.

General competence:
The candidate can:
- Make estimates enabling her to frame the problems at hand and to see them in a greater engineering perspective
- Communicate with other engineering professions in a design process facilitated through a simple platform describing complex geotechnical conditions.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, calculation and laboratory exercises.

Compulsory assignments

  • Assignments

Further on evaluation

If there is a re-sit examination, the examination form may be changed from written to oral.

Course materials

Information at start of term, lecture notes.

Credit reductions

Course code Reduction From
TBA4105 7.5 sp
BA6064 7.5 sp
This course has academic overlap with the courses in the table above. If you take overlapping courses, you will receive a credit reduction in the course where you have the lowest grade. If the grades are the same, the reduction will be applied to the course completed most recently.

Subject areas

  • Structural Engineering
  • Geotechnical Engineering
  • Technological subjects

Contact information

Examination

Examination

Examination arrangement: Written examination
Grade: Letters

Ordinary examination - Autumn 2019

Written examination
Weighting 100/100 Examination aids Code D Date 2019-12-02 Time 15:00 Duration 4 hours
Place and room for written examination

The specified room can be changed and the final location will be ready no later than 3 days before the exam. You can find your room location on Studentweb.

Sluppenvegen 14
Room SL111 grønn sone
27 candidates
Room SL410 orange sone
2 candidates

Re-sit examination - Summer 2020

Written examination
Weighting 100/100 Examination aids Code D Duration 4 hours Place and room Not specified yet.