3D Tortuosity Calculation for Loose Rock-Soil Masses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the three-dimensional tortuosity of rock-soil masses are inadequate as they often assume unrealistic particle shapes and are either overly simplistic or complex, leading to inaccuracies in reflecting actual grain size distribution and pore channel development, which is critical for fluid flow in porous media.
Innovation Solution
A method involving particle size analysis to obtain equivalent and average particle sizes, combined with moisture content, density, and specific gravity tests to calculate tortuosity using a specific expression that incorporates these parameters, providing a more accurate representation of tortuosity in loose and broken rock-soil masses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current tortuosity calculation models are used, then the calculation process is simple, but the accuracy reflects actual grain size distribution and pore channel development inaccurately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameters used in tortuosity calculation from single-index models (only porosity) to multi-index models incorporating particle shape factors, particle size distribution, and pore channel characteristics. This parameter expansion enables accurate reflection of actual grain size distribution and pore channel development while maintaining calculation feasibility through standardized measurement methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite tortuosity calculation model that integrates multiple factors: porosity, particle shape factors, particle size distribution, and pore channel characteristics. This composite approach combines different measurement dimensions into a unified tortuosity assessment, achieving both accuracy and practical applicability in rock-soil mass evaluation.
2Measurement precision
If tortuosity models with multiple parameters are used, then the accuracy reflects actual conditions better, but the difficulty of determining parameters accurately increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex direct measurement of tortuosity with indirect measurement through standardized geotechnical tests. Instead of directly measuring tortuosity, the method uses particle size analysis, porosity tests, and permeability measurements to calculate tortuosity through established mathematical relationships, significantly reducing measurement difficulty while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the rock-soil mass to provide its own tortuosity information through its inherent physical properties. By measuring standard parameters like particle size distribution, porosity, and permeability that are already characteristic of the material, the method extracts tortuosity information without requiring external intervention or complex measurement systems.
3Device complexity
If assumptions of square or circular particles are made, then the calculation is simplified, but the reflection of actual particle distribution characteristics is inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality analysis by considering different particle size categories and their specific distribution characteristics within the rock-soil mass. Instead of assuming uniform particle shapes, the method analyzes particle size distribution curves and applies appropriate shape factors to different size fractions, accurately reflecting the actual heterogeneous particle distribution while maintaining calculation feasibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a three-dimensional tortuosity of a loose and broken rock-soil mass, includes the following steps: a particle grading curve of the loose and broken rock-soil mass is obtained by utilizing a particle size analysis, and followed by calculating an equivalent particle size and an average particle size; a porosity of the loose and broken rock-soil mass is obtained by utilizing a moisture content test, a density test, and a specific gravity test; the three-dimensional tortuosity of the loose and broken rock-soil mass is obtained by utilizing the equivalent particle size, the average particle size and the porosity of the loose and broken rock-soil mass. The method has the advantages of simple logic, accuracy and reliability, simple and fast parameter determination, and has high practical value and promotion value in the field of environmental protection and ecological restoration technology.