A New Age of Geotechnical Engineering

Abstract

In this keynote lecture, the pressing challenges facing today’s geotechnical engineering, particularly regarding the unpredictability of soil and rock properties, are explored. The multifaceted nature of uncertainty and complexity in geotechnical solutions is examined, with emphasis placed on the need for precision, realism, economy, and sustainability. Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Digital Twins, and Metaverse are leveraged, showcasing their transformative potential in addressing these challenges. Through a comprehensive review of recent studies and real-life case studies, the benefits and disadvantages of these technologies in geotechnical applications are highlighted. A central focus is placed on the introduction of a novel Deep Learning-Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) approach for predicting the axial capacity of drilled shafts, which integrates empirical data with geotechnical principles. The findings underscore the promise of emerging technologies to revolutionize geotechnical engineering and usher in a new era of precision and sustainability.