Itasca Consulting Canada Inc.: Software
UDEC
UDEC (Universal Distinct Element Code) is well suited for problems involving jointed rock systems or assemblages of discrete blocks subjected to quasi-static or dynamic conditions. UDEC addresses the engineering problems associated with mining, studies of deep underground isolation of radioactive materials, energy resource recovery, stability analysis of dams on jointed rock foundations, earthquake and seismology studies and subterranean structures.
Main Features
- Simulation of large displacements (slip and opening) along distinct surfaces in a discontinuous medium
- Discontinuous medium treated as an assemblage of discrete (convex or concave) polygonal blocks
- Discontinuities treated as boundary conditions between blocks
- Relative motion along discontinuities governed by linear and non-linear force-displacement relations for movement in both the normal and shear directions
- Explicit solution scheme, giving a stable solution to unstable physical processes
- Rigid or deformable blocks (can be mixed in UDEC)
- Library of material models for deformable blocks and for discontinuities
- "Null" blocks for excavation and nonlinear material models for backfill simulation
- Full dynamic capability, with absorbing boundaries and wave input
- Boundary element coupling for "infinite domain" problems
- Structural elements (including non-linear cables), with general coupling to continuum blocks or discontinuities
- Tunnel generator and statistically-based joint-set generator
- Simulates transient heat conduction and development of thermally induced stresses and displacements
- Components of stored and dissipated energy may be monitored
