Backcalculation Tool

The Rubicon Toolbox Backcalculation module allows engineers to quickly and effectively determine layer stiffnesses from Falling Weight Deflectometer data. Building on the reliability and reputation of the older generation Rubicon2 Backcalculation routine, the Rubicon Toolbox Backcalculation Module now incorporates several new and powerful features to ensure greater efficiency and flexibility during backcalculation analyses.

FWD data are imported from a simple Microsoft Excel template. If your data is still in raw data format, (e.g.: *.fwd or *.f25 format) then the FWD Parser tool can be used to convert your raw data into the FWD Import Template. Thickness data from trial pit or Ground Penetrating Radar investigations can similarly be imported from an Excel template. Once your data are imported, backcalculation is started through an easy-to-use one-page dialog. Up to three pavement layers can be accommodated, with an additional two layers allowed for the upper subgrade and lower substratum (or "equivalent stiff layer"). This subdivision of the subgrade effectively models non-linear and shallow subgrade situations. Users also have full control over backcalculation search ranges, required precision and maximum search iterations.

A key feature of the Rubicon Toolbox Backcalculation module is the graphical summary of backcalculation results. Here users have two features at their disposal: (a) by linking results to the Rubicon Toolbox Bowl Analyzer, users can view and - if needed - redo and override the automated backcalculation result at a selected bowl with a manual backcalculation; (b) a built-in graphical report  shows the stiffness of each layer versus station position and also summarizes results for each layer statistically. From the on-screen report, users can also click-and-drag a subsection and obtain a detailed statistical report of layer stiffnesses in that area.

As with many other Rubicon Toolbox modules, users can create customized stiffness interpretation categories, which can be used to instantly classify layer stiffnesses into categories such as "Good", "Fair" or "Poor". Frequent upgrades are planned for the Backcalculation Tool, to ensure the model and search techniques remain abreast with new technology developments.

Key Features

• Utilizes the fast and well-validated WESLEA multi-layer elastic module for deflection bowl calculations;

• Import deflections from a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet template. This format facilitates easy editing of outlier bowls using normal spreadsheet operations;

• The FWD Parser converts raw data files to a ready-to-import spreadsheet template;

• Layer thicknesses (representing Trial Pits or Ground Penetrating Radar measurements) can be imported from Microsoft Excel and are automatically matched with deflection bowls during backcalculation;

• Handles up to three pavement layers, in addition to an upper and lower subgrade model;

• Subdivided subgrade allows modeling of non-linear subgrade effects as well as shallow subgrade situations;

• Full control over convergence criteria such as Allowable Error Per Sensor and Maximum Search Iterations;

• View and edit backcalculation results using the Rubicon Toolbox Deflection Bowl Analyzer;

• The Built-in report shows individual layer stiffnesses at all stations and summarizes results for each layer statistically. The report can also be printed or copied electronically;

• Export all results to Microsoft Excel for further analysis and plotting (e.g. using the Rubicon Toolbox Data Viewer);

• Allows customization of Engineering Units to display on reports and on screen;
• Backed by MAS's efficient and personalized customer support.

Pricing

Please see our Price List for details.

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Last modified: 04/08/08