Numerical Methods

Groundwater models

Picture 1: Groundwater model for the excavation pit for Minden lock

Basis for the calculation of groundwater flow is its description using mathematical models. Numerical computational methods based on the finite element method (FEM) or the finite difference method (FDM) meanwhile offer a suitable range of standard instruments for dealing with complex geohydraulic issues.

Groundwater models

Interaction of ground and building structure

Picture 2: 3D model of the excavation pit for Sülfeld lock

Deformation and stability calculations for building structures used in waterways engineering are increasingly carried out using the finite element method (FEM) and in recent years also the distinct element method (DEM). The advantage of FEM is that it can be used to visualize complex geometries and ground conditions, and also indicates interaction between building structure and the ground.

Interaction of ground and building structure

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Overview