Generalized solution procedure for automated slope stability analysis using inclined slices

In this paper, a general method has been developed for slope stability analysis to determine the critical slip surface and the corresponding factor of safety using inclined slices satisfying both force and moment equilibrium equations. The problem is one of constrained nonlinear programming. The same is converted to an unconstrained one using extended penalty function method wherein a composite function is developed by blending the objective function and the constraints. The composite function so developed is then minimized adopting sequential unconstrained minimization technique, for a decreasing sequence of penalty parameter. The predicted critical shear surface so obtained has been compared with the results obtained from model tests and the theoretical values reported in critical slip surface and the corresponding minimum factor of safety.