Seep 3 D

User's Guide
for 3D finite element seepage analysis
Version 1
GEO-SLOPE International Ltd.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada
2 Seep3D
Software License
The software described in this manual is furnished under a license agreement. The software may be used or copied
only in accordance with the terms of the agreement.
Software Support
Support for the software is furnished under the terms of a support agreement.
Copyright
Information contained within this User's Guide is copyrighted and all rights are reserved by GEO-SLOPE
International Ltd. The Seep3D software is a proprietary product and trade secret of GEO-SLOPE. The User’s
Guide may be reproduced or copied in whole or in part by the software licensee for use with running the software.
The User’s Guide may not be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means for the purpose of selling the
copies.
Disclaimer of Warranty
GEO-SLOPE reserves the right to make periodic modifications of this product without obligation to notify any
person of such revision. GEO-SLOPE does not guarantee, warrant, or make any representation regarding the use of,
or the results of, the programs in terms of correctness, accuracy, reliability, currentness, or otherwise; the user is
expected to make the final evaluation in the context of his (her) own problems.
Trademarks
WindowsTM is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Copyright © 2000 - 2002

by
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Printed in Canada
3 GeoStudio
Contents
Introduction to Seep3D ........................................................................................................................... 7
Installing Seep3D..................................................................................................................................... 8
Getting Started .................................................................................................................................... 8
System Requirements......................................................................................................................... 8
Installing GeoStudio ............................................................................................................................ 8
Modifying your GeoStudio Installation.......................................................................................... 9
Managing GeoStudio License Files .................................................................................................... 9
Managing Network Licenses............................................................................................................. 11
Requirements for running Network Licenses ............................................................................. 11
Choosing the License Server Computer .................................................................................... 11
Installing the Network License Software .................................................................................... 11
Running the License Server Program as a Windows Service.................................................... 12
Running the License Server on the command line..................................................................... 13
Running GEO-SLOPE Software from the Client Computers ..................................................... 13
Viewing the GeoStudio Documentation ............................................................................................ 14
Using the GeoStudio Tutorials .......................................................................................................... 14
Technical Support for GeoStudio...................................................................................................... 14
Getting Started....................................................................................................................................... 16
The GeoStudio Modelling Paradigm ................................................................................................. 16
A Project ..................................................................................................................................... 16
The Model Geometry.................................................................................................................. 16
An Analysis ................................................................................................................................. 16
Results........................................................................................................................................ 16
Property Sheets.......................................................................................................................... 17
General Commands .......................................................................................................................... 17
Creating the Model Geometry........................................................................................................... 17
Manipulating Regions in the Regions View....................................................................................... 22
Manipulators on a Single Selected Face.................................................................................... 22
Manipulators on Multiply Selected Faces................................................................................... 24
Aligning Selected Objects........................................................................................................... 25
Domain Level Transformations................................................................................................... 25
Walls, Grid, and Snapping.......................................................................................................... 26
Manipulating Boundary Condition Locations .................................................................................... 26
Tutorials.................................................................................................................................................. 30
A Steady State Analysis of a Homogeneous Earth Dam.................................................................. 30
Define the Grid Spacing ............................................................................................................. 30
Set the Analysis Properties ........................................................................................................ 30
Create the Region ...................................................................................................................... 30
Mesh the Region ........................................................................................................................ 31
Establish the Boundary Conditions ............................................................................................ 31
Define and Apply the Material .................................................................................................... 32
Save and Solve the Problem ...................................................................................................... 32
View the Results......................................................................................................................... 33
View the Hull Contours ............................................................................................................... 33
View the Piezometric Surface..................................................................................................... 33
View an Iso-surface .................................................................................................................... 33
View a Result Point .................................................................................................................... 33
View a Result Cut Line ............................................................................................................... 34
View a Result Cut Plane............................................................................................................. 34
4 Seep3D
View a Flux Quantity................................................................................................................... 34

A Transient Analysis of a Homogeneous Earth Dam ....................................................................... 34
Define the Grid Spacing ............................................................................................................. 35
Set the Steady State Analysis Properties................................................................................... 35
Set the Transient Analysis Properties ........................................................................................ 35
Create the Region ...................................................................................................................... 36
Mesh the Region ........................................................................................................................ 36
Establish the Boundary Conditions ............................................................................................ 37
Define and Apply the Material .................................................................................................... 37
Save and Solve the Problem ...................................................................................................... 38
View the Results......................................................................................................................... 38
View the Hull Contours ............................................................................................................... 38
View a Piezometric Surface........................................................................................................ 39
View an Iso-surface .................................................................................................................... 39
View a Result Point .................................................................................................................... 39
View a Result Cut Line ............................................................................................................... 39
View a Result Cut Plane............................................................................................................. 40
View the Flux Quantities............................................................................................................. 40
The Help system .................................................................................................................................... 41

The HTML Help Viewer..................................................................................................................... 41
Getting more out of help ............................................................................................................. 41
Using accessibility shortcut keys in the Help Viewer ................................................................. 43
Using the shortcut menu commands.......................................................................................... 46
About the Search tab ........................................................................................................................ 47
About advanced full-text search........................................................................................................ 47
Searching for help topics ............................................................................................................ 47
Searching for words or phrases.................................................................................................. 48
Defining search terms................................................................................................................. 48
About changing the Help Viewer....................................................................................................... 50
GeoStudio Workspace .......................................................................................................................... 52

GeoStudio Menu ............................................................................................................................... 52
Menus & Toolbars ............................................................................................................................. 52
Tree View Window ............................................................................................................................ 54
3D View............................................................................................................................................. 54
Catalog Window ................................................................................................................................ 56
3D Controls Window ......................................................................................................................... 56
Object Reference ................................................................................................................................... 57

Project ............................................................................................................................................... 57
Analysis............................................................................................................................................. 59
Boundary Conditions......................................................................................................................... 62
Materials............................................................................................................................................ 64
Domain .............................................................................................................................................. 67
Solid Regions.............................................................................................................................. 68
Surfaces...................................................................................................................................... 69
Lines ........................................................................................................................................... 70
Points.......................................................................................................................................... 71
Free Points ................................................................................................................................. 72
Result Set.......................................................................................................................................... 73
Result Point ................................................................................................................................ 76
Result Line.................................................................................................................................. 77
Result Plane ............................................................................................................................... 79
Isosurface ................................................................................................................................... 81
Hull Contour................................................................................................................................ 82
5 GeoStudio
Theory..................................................................................................................................................... 83
Volumetric Water Content Functions ................................................................................................ 83
Hydraulic Conductivity Functions...................................................................................................... 84
Flow Law ........................................................................................................................................... 85
Governing Equations......................................................................................................................... 86
Coordinate Systems.......................................................................................................................... 87
Interpolating Functions...................................................................................................................... 90
Field Variable Model ......................................................................................................................... 91
Derivatives of Interpolation Functions............................................................................................... 92
Finite Element Equations .................................................................................................................. 94
Time Integration ................................................................................................................................ 95
Numerical Integration ........................................................................................................................ 96
Hydraulic Conductivity Matrix............................................................................................................ 99
Mass Matrix..................................................................................................................................... 100
Flux Boundary ................................................................................................................................. 102
Assembly of Global Equations and Equation Solver ...................................................................... 102
Iteration Scheme ............................................................................................................................. 102
Gradients and Velocities ................................................................................................................. 103
Flow Quantities ............................................................................................................................... 104
Material Functions........................................................................................................................... 105
Modelling Guidelines .......................................................................................................................... 106

Modelling Progression..................................................................................................................... 106
Units ................................................................................................................................................ 106
Mesh Design ................................................................................................................................... 108
Relevant Materials .......................................................................................................................... 109
Basic Solution Requirements.......................................................................................................... 110
Incremental Time Sequences ......................................................................................................... 111
Conductivity Function Requirements .............................................................................................. 111
Initial Conditions.............................................................................................................................. 113
Boundary Conditions....................................................................................................................... 115
Upstream Vertical Boundary..................................................................................................... 115
Downstream Vertical Boundary ................................................................................................ 116
Fluctuating Reservoir................................................................................................................ 117
Flux Boundary........................................................................................................................... 117
Internal Boundary Conditions ................................................................................................... 118
Ground Surface Flux ................................................................................................................ 118
Potential Seepage Boundaries ....................................................................................................... 119
Handling Convergence Difficulties .................................................................................................. 120
The Problem with Steep Functions .......................................................................................... 120
Using Convergence Parameters .............................................................................................. 121
Selecting Convergence Parameters......................................................................................... 122
Effect of the Volumetric Water Content Function ..................................................................... 122
Unnatural Boundary Conditions................................................................................................ 122
Transmissivity and Storativity ......................................................................................................... 123
Verification ........................................................................................................................................... 125

Foundation Cutoff Seepage ............................................................................................................ 125
Earth Dam Seepage........................................................................................................................ 127
Layered Slope Infiltration ................................................................................................................ 131
Radial Flow to a Well ...................................................................................................................... 134
Consolidation Analysis .................................................................................................................... 137
Reservoir Clay Liner........................................................................................................................ 140
Unsaturated Hydraulic Conductivity ................................................................................................. 144

Direct Measurement........................................................................................................................ 144
6 Seep3D
Predictive Method................................................................................................................................ 145

Measurement of Water Content Function ....................................................................................... 147
Example Material Property Functions ............................................................................................. 147
Index ..................................................................................................................................................... 159

7 GeoStudio
Introduction to Seep3D
Seep3D is a new software product for modeling three-dimensional seepage problems. Seep3D represents an entirely
different way of modeling from any other analytical modeling software you may have used before. Not only can you
interactively create three-dimensional models and visualize the results, but you can model many classes of problems
that were impossible to analyze before.
Seep3D is based on the concept of "objects" that are combined together to create a model. The easiest way to
imagine the new system is to think of LEGO®, the well-known children's toy. LEGO® consist of small individual
pieces which, when joined together, build meaningful structures. The pieces can be relatively simple or specialized
items serving a single function.
Seep3D uses blocks (called "regions") to represent real engineering problems. To create a model of your geometry,
you simply drag a block from the Region catalog window onto your 3D View; then, drop new regions onto the
existing region faces to build your model geometry (called the "domain"). The finite element mesh pattern is
inherent to each region in the domain. Therefore, as you connect regions together, the mesh is constructed
automatically, ensuring complete mesh compatibility between the regions. This makes it possible to create a three-
dimensional mesh over any domain that you can build with regions.
Materials and boundary conditions are created separately from the domain. This lets you delete regions from the
domain without losing any boundary condition or material information. Creating one boundary condition and then
applying it to many locations on the domain allows you to only enter the information once, reducing the likelihood
of errors. You can also change material properties globally by editing a material; the new values will be used for all
regions that use that material.
Once you have setup your domain and applied boundary conditions and material properties, the problem is ready to
be analyzed using one of Seep3D's built-in analysis algorithms. Seep3D contains iterative solvers that can handle
linear, nonlinear, steady-state, transient, and adaptive analyses.
You can quickly find the results you need from the massive amounts of data produced by a 3D analysis. For
example, you can extract data using "result planes" that "cut" through the domain, displaying surface contours, flow
vectors, and flow lines. You can contour any parameter on the exterior hull of the domain, create x-y plots, and copy
data into Excel for further analysis.
Seep3D's intuitive interface gives you quick access to commands. Simply right-click on any object in the 3D View
or tree view to modify its properties or execute one of its commands. You can explore your model in 3D by
interactively zooming, panning, and rotating within the 3D View. Multiple 3D views can also be displayed
simultaneously. When you modify an object in one of the views, its display is updated within all views.
Seep3D is only the first application in the GeoStudio software family. Future GeoStudio applications include stress-
deformation and stability analyses. The concept behind the different GeoStudio applications is that you can define
your domain once and then perform many different analyses on this single model, all without leaving the GeoStudio
environment
8 Seep3D
Installing Seep3D
Getting Started
1. Make sure that your computer meets the System Requirements as outlined in "Installing GeoStudio".
2. Run the Setup Program and install the GeoStudio application.
The default installation will let GeoStudio run as a File Viewer, allowing you to open the example projects
supplied with GeoStudio. To create and solve your own projects, you must obtain a License for the GeoStudio
application that you wish to use.
3. Install Internet Explorer, as outlined in "Installing GeoStudio".
4. Contact GEO-SLOPE to obtain a GeoStudio License (e.g., a Seep3D license).
As outlined later in this document, you may need to provide GEO-SLOPE with the Ethernet address of your
computer. Alternatively, you can obtain a FLEXid Dongle from GEO-SLOPE that attaches to the parallel port
of your computer. GEO-SLOPE will then send you a License File that contains information required to run
GeoStudio. See "Managing GeoStudio License" for further details.
5. Install the received License File in your \GeoStudio\Licenses folder by double clicking on the received file. As
outlined in "Installing a GeoStudio License", you will also need to install a License Server program if you
obtained a network license.
6. You are now ready to run GeoStudio.
Before creating your own project in GeoStudio, it is strongly recommended that you first step through the
tutorials provided in the GeoStudio Online Help.
System Requirements
GeoStudio requires Windows NT 4, 2000, or XP installed on a Pentium-class system.
GEO-SLOPE recommends the following system:
• Pentium II or higher processor with a 400 MHz or higher clock speed.
• A 3D graphics card with full OpenGL support under Windows NT, 2000, or XP running in at least 1024 x 768
resolution. The OpenGL driver should be a full ICD (Installable Client Driver) not an MCD (Mini Client
Driver). The graphics card should have OpenGL support for at least the 16-bit color mode.
• 128MB of RAM (256MB or more for large problems).
You will need to have at least Internet Explorer (IE) Version 4 installed before installing GeoStudio. This will
ensure proper installation of Microsoft’s XML parser during the GeoStudio installation and will enable you to view
online help properly. GEO-SLOPE recommends that you install the latest copy of Internet Explorer from
Microsoft’s web site at http://www.microsoft.com/ie before installing GeoStudio.
Installing GeoStudio
To install GeoStudio on your computer:
1. Insert the CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive.
2. The software installation program is automatically loaded when the CD-ROM is inserted into the drive.
Alternatively, from the Start Menu, you can select run and type d:\Autorun in the dialog box, where d: is your
CD-ROM drive. Select OK to start the installation.
9 GeoStudio
3. Click on the View Installation Instructions option if you wish to display or print the setup instructions.
4. Click on Install GeoStudio Seep3D, and follow the instructions given by the Setup program.
Installing GeoStudio also installs a Viewer license, which allows you to run GeoStudio and open example files
included with the software. You will need to obtain a License from GEO-SLOPE to modify these projects or to
create your own. See "Managing GeoStudio License Files" later in this document.
Modifying your GeoStudio Installation

To remove, repair or modify your installation of GeoStudio:
1. Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.
3. Click the Install/Uninstall tab.
4. Click GeoStudio, and then click Add/Remove.
5. Select Remove, Repair or Modify.
6. Follow the instructions given by the program.
Managing GeoStudio License Files

GeoStudio supports GLOBEtrotter's FLEXlm Flexible License Management System. Operation of the license
management system depends on a license file and a hardware device. The hardware device, to which the license file
is linked using the unique ID of the device, is known as the "Host ID". GeoStudio Software supports two types of
Host ID's: a "FLEXid" hardware key that attaches to your computer, or the address of an ethernet card installed on
your computer. Once a license is issued for a specific Host ID, the license can only be used with the same FLEXid
key or on the computer having the same ethernet address.
Licenses are of two main types.
A "Standalone License", which only allows the software to run on a specific computer.
A "Network License", which allows the software to be run from anywhere on the network.
GeoStudio is installed with a Standalone "viewer license" by default. If the CD-ROM was shipped to you after you
purchased a Standalone License, then the full-featured license file is installed during the software setup; no further
action is necessary.
Purchasing Licenses
You can contact GEO-SLOPE to purchase new licenses for the GeoStudio software. First, you must decide whether
you would like a Standalone License or a Network License. Second, you must select the type of Host ID to use with
your license file. You can choose either a hardware key attached to your computer or the ethernet address of a
computer on your network.
If you select the ethernet address option as your Host ID, you will need to determine your ethernet Host ID, as
described below, and include it with your purchase order. GEO-SLOPE will then e-mail the license file(s) as soon as
your purchase order is processed.
If you select the FLEXid hardware key as your Host ID, you do not need to send any Host ID information to GEO-
SLOPE. Your FLEXid dongle will be sent to you, together with the license file, once your purchase order is
processed.
Please contact GEO-SLOPE if you have any questions about purchasing licenses.
10 Seep3D
Finding your Ethernet Address

The following steps describe how to determine a computer's ethernet address (for use as the Host ID):
If you have installed GeoStudio, you may get your ethernet address by running the "GEO-SLOPE License Utility".
To run GEO-SLOPE License Utility, click the Start button and then click Programs, GEO-SLOPE, GeoStudio, and
then GEO-SLOPE License Utility. The ethernet address is displayed in the License Utility Window.
If you have not installed GeoStudio, you can obtain your ethernet address as follows:
1. Select Run from the Start menu, type cmd, and press Enter.
A command window is displayed.
2. In the command window, type the following command:
ipconfig /all
Under the heading "Ethernet adapter Local Area Connection", your ethernet Card address is located where it
says "Physical Address".
Installing a Standalone License file

Once you have received a new license file for a GEO-SLOPE application, you can install the license file on your
computer. If you have received a Network license, please refer to the topic titled "Managing Network Licenses" for
instructions on installing the license.
To install a Standalone license file on your computer:
1. If you purchased a license with a FLEXid key as the Host ID, attach it to your computer's USB or parallel port
as appropriate.
2. Save the received license file on your local hard drive and double click on it. The license file gets installed
automatically.
To install the license file manually, follow the procedure given below:
1. If you purchased a license with a FLEXid key as the Host ID, attach it to your computer's USB or parallel port
as appropriate.
2. From the Windows Start Menu, select Programs, GEO-SLOPE, GeoStudio and click on "GEO-SLOPE
License Utility". The license utility is started.
3. Select the "Use License Files Only" option.
4. Click on the "Get New License File" button and select the license file name from the dialog box that appears.
NOTE: If you received an error message at this point, it is very likely that the FLEXid key is not attached or the
software is being installed on a computer with the wrong ethernet address.
5. Click Done.
You are now ready to run the GeoStudio software application. Choose Help About to view the application's
license information.
11 GeoStudio
Managing Network Licenses

Configuring a GEO-SLOPE Network License
Network Licenses for GEO-SLOPE applications make it possible for you to use the software on any computer on
your network. It also allows a group of people to use the software simultaneously. For example, if you purchased a
5-user Network license for Seep3D, up to 5 people on the network can use Seep3D concurrently.
A FLEXlm License Server Program must be run on a designated computer on the network; this computer is referred
to here as the license server computer. The License Server Program monitors the number of users running
GeoStudio software concurrently and ascertains that properly licensed software is being used. If the license file is
issued for a FLEXid key, then the correct FLEXid key should be attached to the license server computer. If you
chose to use the ethernet address of a particular computer as the "Host ID", the license server program should be run
on that computer.
All full-featured licenses for GeoStudio licenses are tied to a unique identification number known as the "Host ID".
GEO-SLOPE uses the ID number of a FLEXid dongle (hardware key) or an ethernet address (provided by you) as
the Host ID. Once a license is issued for a specific Host ID, the license can only be used with that same FLEXid
dongle or on the computer having the same ethernet address.
It is highly recommended that you make a backup copy of the software license file.
Requirements for running Network Licenses

For Network licenses to work properly, the following requirements should be met:
• Network Software installed on the License Server Computer.
• Correct FLEXid key attached to the License Server Computer if the Network licenses require a FLEXid
key.
• License Server Program should be running.
• Client computers should be set to use the licenses available at the License Server Computer using the GEO-
SLOPE License Utility.
• GEO-SLOPE software communicates with the License Server through TCP/IP network protocol.
Therefore, your network must support the TCP/IP protocol. If you are using Novell Netware you must be
using a recent version that supports TCP/IP. However, the License Server and the GeoStudio application
should both be run on the Windows operating system.
Choosing the License Server Computer

The License Server Computer can be any Windows workstation on the network and not necessarily a Network
Server. You should select a stable system as the License Server Computer; in other words, you shouldn't pick a
system that is frequently rebooted or shut down for one reason or another.
GEO-SLOPE software supports only a single License Server on a network. Therefore, the GEO-SLOPE License
Server should not be running on multiple computers on the network.
Installing the Network License Software

To install the network license software:
1. On the License Server computer that you have selected, insert the GEO-SLOPE distribution CD-ROM.
The Setup program is automatically loaded when the CD-ROM is inserted into the drive. Alternatively, from
the Start Menu, you can select run and type d:\autorun in the dialog box (where d: is your CD-ROM drive),
and then select OK to start the Setup program.
12 Seep3D
2. Choose "Install Network License Utilities" to install the software required for managing Network licenses.
The Network License Utilities setup program begins execution.
3. Follow the instructions given by the Setup program to install the software. You can use all of the default
options.
4. If you are using a FLEXid dongle as your Host ID, attach it to the parallel (printer) port or the USB port
depending on the type of your FLEXid. Go to "Running the License Server as a Windows Service" section to
complete the installation.
5. If you are planning to use the ethernet address as your Host ID , you can obtain the License Server's ethernet
address by running the "FLEXlm License Utility" and selecting the System Settings tab. This utility can be
found under Start, Programs, GEO-SLOPE, Network Utilities.
6. Alternatively, to obtain the Ethernet Host ID, open an MS-DOS (command line) Window and change the
directory to \GEO-SLOPE\Network License Utilities. Get the Host ID by typing the following command:
>lmutil lmhostid -ether
7. Write down or copy the returned Host ID.
8. Request a Network (floating) license from GEO-SLOPE. Either email the Host ID and the server computer
name to info@geo-slope.com or fax it to GEO-SLOPE at (403) 266-4851. When you provide your Host ID to
GEO-SLOPE, we will generate a unique license file and send it to you via email or diskette.
9. Once you receive the license file from GEO-SLOPE, install it into the GEO-SLOPE\Network Licenses folder
by double clicking on it.
It is unnecessary to install the GeoStudio client software on the License Server Computer.
Running the License Server Program as a Windows Service

You may wish to run the License Server as a Windows NT Service so that the License Server will start at boot up
and always be running, regardless of whether someone logs in or out of the server computer. To install the License
Server as a Windows NT Service:
1. Run the FLEXlm License Utility (LMTOOLS.exe). This utility can be found under Start, Programs, GEO-
SLOPE, Network Utilities.
2. On the "Service/License File" tab, select the "Configuration using Services" option.
3. Select the "Configure Services" tab and type in a name for the Service (e.g., GEO-SLOPE License Service).
4. Type the path to the lmgrd.exe file (e.g. C:\Program Files\GEO-SLOPE\Network License Utilities\lmgrd.exe).
5. Type the path to the license file.
NOTE: If you need to run multiple license files as a Service, create an empty folder, and copy only the
required license files to this folder; type in the folder name including the path and append the file name as *.*
6. Type a file name for the debug log including the path.
7. Select the "Use Services" checkbox.
8. Select the "Start Server at Powerup" option.
9. Click the Save Service button.
10. Go to the Start/Stop/Reread tab on the FLEXlm License Utility, select the service name from the utility, and
click on the Start Server button. Alternatively, you can reboot to start the Service.
13 GeoStudio
12. You can remove a License Service by clicking on the Remove Service button. You will need to remove the
service if you wish to uninstall the Network License Utilities.
To install or remove the License Server Service manually, rather than using the above method:
1. Run the installs.exe program provided with the Network License Utilities to install the service. From a
command line, run:
installs path_to_lmgrd
where path_to_lmgrd is the full path to lmgrd.exe (e.g., "C:\Program Files\GEO-SLOPE\Network License
Utilities\lmgrd.exe").
After installs.exe is run successfully, the License Server is installed as a Windows Service and will be started
automatically each time your system is booted.
2. To remove the service from the registered service list, run:
installs remove
Running the License Server on the command line

The License Server can also be run in the command line mode (also known as the debug mode). The disadvantage of
running the License Server this way is that it will occupy a total of three command line windows on the desktop.
Also, it may be difficult to start and stop the License Server.
To run and stop the License Server on the command line:
1. Open a command line window and navigate to the GEO-SLOPE\Network License Utilities folder.
2. Run the License Server by typing the following:
lmgrd -c license_file_path
where license_file_path is the license file name, including the file path. If multiple license files need to be
run, separate them using semicolons (";"). Alternatively, you can use a text editor (like Windows Notepad) to
combine all of the license files into one file with a .lic extension and specify this file as the license_file_path.
This will bring up two additional command windows; these windows should not be directly shut down before
shutting down the License Server Program.
3. Shut down the License Server by typing the following:
lmutil lmdown -c license_file_path
Running GEO-SLOPE Software from the Client Computers

Once the License Server is setup, the client computers running GeoStudio need to be pointed to the correct license
server.
To specify the location of the License Server on each client computer:
1. Go to Start, Program Files, GEO-SLOPE and click on "GEO-SLOPE License Utility". This will bring up the
GEO-SLOPE License Utility.
2. Select the Use License Server option.
3. Click on the Change button. This will bring the License Server Setup dialog box. Type the license server
14 Seep3D
computer name and click OK.
4. Click Close to dismiss the “GEO-SLOPE License Utility” window.
The client computers are now ready to use the GeoStudio Network license. For information on the advanced
features of FLEXlm License Management, please refer to the FLEXlm User Manual in the ..\GEO-
SLOPE\Network License Utilities folder.
Viewing the GeoStudio Documentation

The online Help system provides you with a powerful, interactive means of accessing the GeoStudio software
documentation from within the software. If you need the manual in a printed format, however, it is useful to view
and print the manual.
The GEO-SLOPE CD-ROM contains the software user's guides in Adobe Acrobat format. To view the
documentation, you can use the Acrobat Viewer included on the CD-ROM. The Acrobat Viewer is distributed freely
by Adobe Systems Incorporated.
To install the Acrobat Viewer:
1. Run the software installation program from the distribution CD-ROM.
2. Click on Install Adobe Acrobat Viewer in the installation window.
The Acrobat Viewer Setup program begins execution.
3. Follow the instructions given by the Acrobat Viewer Setup program.
To view and print the Seep3D User's Guide in Acrobat format:
1. Start the Acrobat Viewer.
2. Choose File Open in the Acrobat Viewer and open the product manual (e.g., Seep3D.pdf).
3. Choose File Print in the Acrobat Viewer to print the file.
4. Repeat Step 3 for each copy that you wish to print.
Using the GeoStudio Tutorials

A Tutorial section is included with the GeoStudio Online Help. The tutorials will guide you step-by-step through the
process of creating and solving a problem. By completing these tutorials, you can quickly obtain an overall
understanding of the features and operations of Seep3D.
Technical Support for GeoStudio

Visit http://www.geo-slope.com/support for Online Support Resources, including:
Knowledge Base: A searchable technical support database.
Discussion Forum: An interactive e-mail discussion forum with others in the geotechnical and geo-
environmental community.
To contact GEO-SLOPE for technical support with Seep3D:
E-mail: support@geo-slope.com
Phone: 403-269-2002
15 GeoStudio
Fax: 403-266-4851
GEO-SLOPE Address:
1400, 633 - 6th Avenue S.W.
Calgary, Alberta,
Canada T2P 2Y5
Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mountain Time.

16 Seep3D
Getting Started
All of the toolbars and windows in the GeoStudio Workspace are dockable, resizable, and customizable. To enable
or disable any of these toolbars or windows, right-click a blank portion of the menu bar.
The GeoStudio Modelling Paradigm

GeoStudio has been designed to facilitate the re-use of materials, boundary conditions and the geometry across
multiple analyses. Thus providing you with a totally integrated modelling environment in which aspects of your
model, such as materials, don't have to be tediously redefined every time you set up a model.
In short, a complete finite element model in GeoStudio consists of the model geometry, the analysis, and the results.
These are describe in more detail below.
A Project
The Project object is the container for all objects in your 3D model. A project contains one Domain object, but can
contain many Analysis, Boundary Condition, Material, or Result Set objects.
The Model Geometry

A domain, which is constructed of regions using a LEGO® approach, is known as the model geometry. This
geometry is shared by all analyses in the current project. The Domain object is the model of your 3D geometry. A
domain consists of a collection of connected regions. Each region has an inherent finite element mesh pattern.
Therefore, the finite element mesh is automatically built as you connect regions together, which ensures mesh
compatibility between regions. Each region is also composed of other geometric entities: faces, lines, and points.
Aspects of the finite element mesh are shared with all the analyses.
An Analysis
An Analysis object defines the settings for a specific Seep3D analysis. While you can have many Analysis objects
defined in a Project, one analysis is specified as the Current Analysis. You can create any number of analyses within
the project. This means that you do not have to redefine your model geometry for each new analysis.
In a specific analysis you apply material properties, and boundary conditions to the domain, solve the problem and
the view the results
Material properties are shared with all analyses in the project. For example, you can define the properties of a clay
material once and apply it to selected regions in different analyses .
Boundary conditions are shared with all the analyses in the project. For example, you can define a pressure head
boundary condition and apply it to selected faces of a region in different analyses.
Results
Once the model has been created and solved, results are available for viewing or for exporting as raw
data. GeoStudio uses the concept of a Result Set for accessing analysis results. A Result Set can be thought of as a
database query that can be replayed on the analysis of your choice (the current analysis).
Result Sets are useful for storing a particular "collection" of result visualization objects. You may wish to create
multiple Result Sets and then use the Results toolbar to switch the view between the various Result Sets. For
example, you could create one Result Set that contains a zero-pressure isosurface and a contoured Result Plane that
intersects the isosurface. In a separate Result Set, you could create a Hull Contour that displays head contours.
Switching between the two Result Sets in the toolbar allows you to move quickly between two different
visualizations. Both Results Sets are also stored when you save your project. This allows you to open the project
later, change the definition, and immediately view the new results in your Result Sets.
17 GeoStudio
Property Sheets
Most objects (e.g., a region or a material) in GeoStudio have properties associated with them and these properties
are accessible through the object's Property Sheet. An object's Property Sheet can be accessed by right clicking an
object in the Tree View and selecting Properties in the context menu. In the 3D View, an object or objects must be
selected prior to displaying that object's context menu. That is, if a property sheet for an edge was required, the edge
would first be selected in either the Tree View or 3D View (by left clicking) and then the Property Sheet could be
displayed for that edge by right clicking in the 3D View. This same operation could also have been done by simply
right clicking the edge icon in the Tree View. Some Property Sheets are available for multiple selections.
Once a property sheet is displayed, it is not necessary to close it to gain access to a different object's properties. The
property sheet can remain open while a new object or objects are selected, in which case the new object's properties
will become available to view and edit.
General Commands
GeoStudio commands are typically initiated by right-clicking a selected GeoStudio object in the Tree View or 3D
View and selecting a command from the shortcut menu. Using the shortcut menu instead of the menu bar allows you
select commands more quickly, since only the relevant commands are displayed in the shortcut menu. The shortcut
commands are described for each object's property sheet.
GeoStudio also has commands that do not relate specifically to GeoStudio objects. These commands are available
from drop-down menus in the main menu bar and from the various toolbars. They are used to perform general
operations in GeoStudio, such as opening files, printing, and setting program options. This section describes the
general commands available in GeoStudio.
Creating the Model Geometry

GeoStudio presents you with three fundamental solid types for creating your model geometry: a hexahedron (hex
region), a tetrahedron (tet region), and a prism region. You are allowed to build your model by dragging and
dropping these regions from the Catalog Window onto the 3D Region View or by using the shortcut menu. Once
you have one or more regions in your domain (the 3D View) you are allowed to manipulate them.
The first region in your domain must be created by dragging a region from the Catalog Window onto the 3D Region
View. Subsequent regions can be created in a similar manner or through the shortcut menu.
New regions are always attached to existing region faces. When you drag a new region from the Catalog View onto
a domain with one or more regions in it, the new region location appears when the mouse cursor, is dragged over,
and highlights one or more existing region faces. The new "temporary" region appears as a wireframe drawing. This
temporary region becomes "permanent" once the user releases the mouse button thus finishing the drag operation.
As you "drag" the mouse over the domain the "temporary" region will change it's size, shape, and location to fit the
underlying highlighted faces. If no faces are highlighted (or a fit can't be found as with placing a tet region on a
quadrilateral face) then a temporary region is not created.
18 Seep3D
The new region will be attached to the existing region faces that are highlighted. A single face will be highlighted
when the mouse cursor is directly over the region face as indicated in the following graphic.
Two neighboring region faces will be highlighted when the cursor lies on the edge shared by the two regions.
19 GeoStudio
Three neighboring region faces will be highlighted when the cursor lies on the point shared by the three regions.
You can also use the shortcut menu to attach a new region to selected region faces. Depending on the faces that are
selected the shortcut menu may contain the following menu items: "New Hex Region", "New Prism Region", or
"New Tet Region".
No collision detection or model geometry verification is in place yet. It's possible for regions to intersect (you won't
get an error message or warning and your problem will still solve). It's also possible to create disjointed regions by
creating a chain and then breaking it in one or more places by deleting intermediate regions. It's also possible to
create regions that are joined along a single edge or single point by building a block of regions and deleting certain
regions.
A region can only be joined to another region only by creating the new region at the selected location (through the
drag/drop operation or through the context menu). If two region faces are separated you are not allowed to drag the
face of one region to coincide with the face of another region as shown below. These regions will not share a
common face (and edges and points) when the operation is complete.
Instead you could follow a sequence such as the drawings below illustrate. In this sequence a "solid" block of nine
hex regions is created in the order shown (ensuring that each new hex region created is properly attached to two
20 Seep3D
faces when it is dropped in place). In the last picture, the center region was deleted. For this case, the center
auxiliary region was used as a temporary placeholder. This is a useful sequence to remember when creating closed
loops or tunnels.
21 GeoStudio
If you are creating a prism on a single face, the axis of the prism is aligned with the longer dimension of the face by
default. You can hold down the CTRL key while dragging and dropping (or creating a prism through the shortcut
menu) to change the orientation of the prism axis.
Default prism orientation.

22 Seep3D
Prism orientation with CTRL key depressed.
Manipulating Regions in the Regions View

You can interactively manipulate regions in the 3D View using the manipulator knobs. Displayed as small red dots,
manipulator knobs are attached to various geometric entities such as faces, edges and points once a face or faces
have been selected. You can manipulate the region geometry by dragging these knobs with the left mouse button
depressed. Regions are always constrained to have planar faces and are not allowed to have zero or negative volume,
such as as inside-out region. A Windows bell will sound and the manipulator won't respond to dragging if a planar
or other constraint would be violated. You may find that it appears possible to drag a face or edge without violating
the planar constraints, but GeoStudio has disabled the drag operation. This case often occurs when a region face,
edge, or point is connected and "locked" by the surrounding geometry.
Many of the manipulator knobs have shortcut menu items associated with them. If you select a manipulator knob
with the right mouse button, a shortcut menu will appear. This menu presents options to manipulate the regions
precisely with a key-in dialog box, along with other available options.
Manipulators on a Single Selected Face.

When you select a single visible face of a region, either through the Tree View or through the 3D View, a
manipulator knob is displayed in the center of the face, on the midpoints of the edges of the face, and on the vertices
of the triangular faces. These are known as normal manipulator knobs, edge manipulator knobs and point
manipulator knobs respectively.
The normal manipulator knob allows you to translate the face in a direction along the normal to the face. Selecting
Face Translate from the shortcut menu, by right-clicking the normal manipulator knob, will display a dialog box for
keying-in precise coordinates for the face translation. The fields labeled Normal indicate the normal vector to the
selected face. The edit box labeled Relative allows you to input a relative translation distance. A positive value here
will translate the face along the positive Normal direction or outward from the region. A negative value will cause
the face to move into the region. The fields labeled Absolute show the coordinates of all the vertices of the selected
23 GeoStudio
face. Entering a value in any of these fields, then tabbing out or pressing OK, will cause that vertex to be translated
to the specified coordinate. All the other vertices will also follow along. Invalid translations are ignored.
The edge manipulator knobs allow you to translate the region edge in the plane of the face, in a direction
perpendicular to the edge. Selecting Edge Translate from the shortcut menu (right-click an edge manipulator knob)
displays a dialog box for keying-in precise coordinates for the edge translation. This dialog box functions in a
similar manner as the Face Translate key-in control.
The point manipulator knobs on triangle faces only, allow you to translate that face vertex along the out of plane
(i.e., out of the plane of the selected face), region edge that the vertex is attached to. Selecting Point Translate from
the shortcut menu by right-clicking a point manipulator knob, will display a dialog box for keying-in precise
coordinates for the point translation. This dialog box functions in a similar manner as the Face Translate key-in
control.
24 Seep3D
Manipulators on Multiply Selected Faces

You can select multiple faces in the 3D View by holding down the CTRL key while making your selections with the
mouse. You can also select the other geometric entities; edges, points, entire regions (double click them), but they
do not have any manipulators associated with them. If all the faces you have selected fall in the same plane, and the
faces are neighbors through shared edges, then GeoStudio will display a normal manipulator knob and possibly
manipulator knobs on edges.
Dragging the normal manipulator knob will translate all the selected faces along the common normal direction.
Selecting Multiple Face Translate from the shortcut menu by right-clicking the normal manipulator knob, will
display a dialog box for keying-in precise coordinates for the multiple face translation, similar to the key-in control
for translating a single face.
Edge manipulator knobs will appear on groups of perimeter edges of multiply selected faces, if those edges are
parallel and form head to tail chains. Dragging one of these edge manipulator knobs will cause several edges to be
translated simultaneously. A "Multiple Edge Translate key-in control is also available for this item through the
shortcut menu.
25 GeoStudio
Aligning Selected Objects

GeoStudio allows you to align selected objects to the plane of the first selected face. If you select a face and an edge
not on the face (hold the CTRL key down for multiple selection), the shortcut menu item "Align to Face" will
become available. Selecting this menu item will cause GeoStudio to attempt to align the edge to the plane of the
face. Nothing will happen if the alignment results in non-planar faces or invalid geometry (inside-out regions). You
are allowed to simultaneously align multiple faces, edges, and points to the first selected face.
Domain Level Transformations

You can translate, scale, or rotate the entire domain through the shortcut menu. If nothing is selected in the Regions
View the items "Translate Domain", "Scale Domain" and "Rotate Domain" appear in the shortcut menu.
The "Translate Domain" key-in control allows you to translate the entire domain by a specified x, y, z distance.
The "Scale Domain" key-in control allows you to scale the entire domain in independent x, y, z directions (the x, y,
z scale factors in the key-in control). A scale factor of x = 2 doubles the size of the regions in the x-direction. A
scale factor of 1 leaves the component intact. A scale factor between 0 and 1 reduces the size of the region. Negative
26 Seep3D
or zero scale factors are disallowed. You are also allowed to specify a Fixed Point in the key-in control. This point
remains fixed during the scaling operation.
The "Rotate Domain" key-in control allows you to rotate the entire domain about a fixed point, about a user
specified rotation axis.
Walls, Grid, and Snapping

Four walls and a floor, with the shadow cast by your regions, are drawn in the 3D View as a visual aid, they do not
contribute anything to the model.
Several options for the walls and grid can be set through the Grid and Snapping dialog box.
As a default, the wall extents and grid spacing are generated automatically to contain your domain. You can change
the wall extents and grid spacing to be fixed by unchecking the "Auto-update extents to fit domain" check box. Grid
spacing refers to the density of the grid displayed on the walls and floor.
When using the 3D manipulators in the 3D View, the manipulated objects will snap to the nearest Snap spacing
position if snapping is enabled. Key-in controls ignore the snap settings.
Manipulating Boundary Condition Locations

Boundary conditions (BC) consist of two parts in GeoStudio; an action and location where the action is to be applied
(region face, edge, or point). The BC action can be set by selecting a boundary condition in the Tree View and
editing the associated property sheet. Boundary conditions may be applied to faces, edges, and points of regions by
selecting one of these objects (either through the Tree View or the 3D View) and applying the BC action to the
location through the region face, edge, or point property sheet.
Presently only surface locations of boundary conditions are capable of being edited. A BC applied to an edge applies
to the entire edge (partial edge locations will be supported in a future version).
You are able to see the locations of applied boundary conditions in the Boundary Conditions View. In this 3D view
all region editing is disabled. Also, all regions are displayed in a neutral gray color (no material colors are shown).
However, boundary conditions are displayed in their respective colors. BC colors are set through the Boundary
Condition property sheet accessible from the Tree View. You are also able to access the region face, edge, and point
property sheets from the Boundary Conditions View allowing you to add BC locations from the region geometry.
You must return to the Region View (or use the Tree View and face, edge, point property sheets) to remove BC
locations from the region geometry. In editing boundary conditions, it is sometimes helpful to open a new 3D View
in order to view both the Region View and Boundary Conditions View at the same time.
27 GeoStudio
A region with boundary conditions applied to a face, an edge and a point.
Surface boundary conditions become editable in the Boundary Condition View, by selecting the surface BC
location. A manipulator knob will appear on every vertex of the surface BC location.
28 Seep3D
You can drag these points anywhere within the confines of the region face. If you attempt to drag the point outside
the face boundary, GeoStudio will snap the point to the edge of the face. GeoStudio will also restrict the shape of the
BC location to always be convex.
You are allowed to insert and delete points on surface BC locations. To insert a point, highlight the edge of the BC
surface location you want to place the point on (by moving the mouse over the edge until it changes color to yellow)
and select "Add Point" from the shortcut menu (right mouse button press). A point will be placed at the midpoint of
the edge.
To delete a point, highlight the point in question and select "Delete Point" from the shortcut menu. You are not
allowed to have less than three points defining a surface BC location.
You can also edit the location of the BC surface location points through a shortcut menu "Surface BC Edit". This
key-in control allows you to enter new coordinates for the point in either global or local coordinates. Local
coordinates are a linear mapping of the global coordinate space to a 2D coordinate space with ordinates varying
between 0 and 1.
Free Points are allow you to apply a boundary condition at a location within your region that doesn't coincide with
the region face, edge, or point. For example you could define a Free Point to exist in the center of a region and use it
as a sink, see the Three Pumping Well file in the \GEO-SLOPE\GeoStudio\Examples folder. Boundary conditions
are applied to a Free Point through it's property sheet.
29 GeoStudio
Free Points are created from the Tree View (in the Free Point folder which is inside the Domain Folder). Right-
clicking the Free Point folder allows you to create a new Free Point. Coordinates for the Free Point are specified in
the Details tab of the Free Point's property sheet (Specified coordinates). Once the Free Point's coordinates are
defined, the Free Point will be displayed in the Region View (as a set of three orthogonal manipulators). The Free
Point will only be displayed if it is within the extents of the 3D View. These manipulators allow you to translate the
Free Point along any of the three coordinate axis directions (x, y, z directions). As with all manipulators in the 3D
View, they are subject to the snapping preferences set by the user.
During the solving stage, a Free Point is associated with nearest finite element mesh node. These are the Applied
(nodal) coordinates fields in the property sheet. This results in your source or sink being applied at a slightly offset
position from that specified. As a general rule, the finer your finite element mesh the less drastic this offset will be.
30 Seep3D
Tutorials
The following tutorials will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating the following models:
• A Steady State Analysis of a Homogeneous Dam
• A Transient Analysis of a Homogeneous Earth Dam
By completing these tutorials, you can quickly obtain an overall understanding of the features and operations of
Seep3D.
A Steady State Analysis of a Homogeneous Earth Dam

This tutorial introduces you to Seep3D by presenting the step-by-step procedures involved in the steady state
analysis of a simple homogeneous dam. By executing each step in the sequence presented, you will be able to define
a problem, solve the problem, and view the results. The data file, Tutorial1.gsp, is installed with the software in the
Examples folder.
The following is a sketch of the dam to be modeled. The objective is to examine the overall effect the water table
has on the structure and the steady state seepage through the earth dam while the reservoir is maintained at full
supply level.
Define the Grid Spacing

1. From the View Menu, select Grid & Snapping.
2. Accept the default settings for this tutorial.
Set the Analysis Properties

1. Expand the Analysis Object by clicking on the plus "+" in the tree view.
2. You can click with the right mouse button (called right-click) to see a shortcut menu for Analysis-1. Click
Properties from the shortcut menu.
3. Type "Tutorial Example 1" in the Name field.
4. Select the Detail Tab, set the Type to Seepage and check the Non-linear checkbox.
5. Select the Time Tab and select the Steady State option.
6. Close the Property Sheet.
Create the Region

1. Drag a hex region from the Catalog Window to the workspace.
2. Click one of the faces of the hex to display the manipulator knobs.
31 GeoStudio
3. Grab the manipulator knob by hovering over it until it turns from red to yellow.
4. Elongate the hex to the desired shape by pulling on the manipulator knobs.
5. Create the upstream and downstream faces of the dam as shown by selecting the top face of the hex and pushing
the manipulator knobs inward to create the crest of the earth dam.
Mesh the Region

1. Click the View Mesh button from the View toolbar to see the default mesh. By default, the number of divisions
per region is two.
2. Click the View Regions button to refine the mesh.
3. Hover over the top edge of the dam on the downstream side, the line will change from blue to pink.
4. Right-mouse click on this line, choose Properties from the menu and select the Mesh tab from the Curve
Properties sheet.
5. Enter 5 as the Target Number of Divisions.
6. Keep the Curve Properties sheet open, move your mouse along the crest of the dam and select one of the side
edges.
7. Under the Mesh tab set the Target Number of Divisions to 10.
8. Click on the View Mesh button to see the refined mesh.
Establish the Boundary Conditions

1. Expand the Boundary Conditions Object by clicking on the plus "+" in the tree view.
32 Seep3D
2. Right-mouse click on the boundary condition and select Properties from the menu.
3. Type "Downstream Potential Seepage Face" in the Name field.
4. Click on the Detail tab, select Potential Seepage Face for the Type and set the Surface Flux Value to zero.
5. Create a new boundary condition by right-mouse clicking on the Boundary Conditions Object in the tree view
and selecting New Boundary Condition from the menu.
6. Type "Upstream H=9" in the Name Field.
7. Click on the Detail tab, select Head for the Type and set the Value to nine.
8. Leave the Boundary Conditions Properties sheet open and click on the upstream face of the dam.
9. Click on the BCs tab and select Upstream H=9 for the Boundary Condition.
10. Click on the downstream face and select Downstream Potential Seepage Face for the Boundary Condition.
Define and Apply the Material

1. Expand the Materials Object by clicking on the plus "+" in the tree view.
2. Right-mouse click on Material-1 and select Properties from the menu.
3. Type "Sandy Clay" in the Name field.
4. Select the Conductivity tab and choose the Edit Conductivity Function button.
5. Type 1e-006 for the Kx at pressure = 0 value.
6. Choose the Function>> button to expand the Conductivity Function for editing.
7. Add a new point by typing -100 for the Pressure 1e-006 for the Conductivity. Use the TAB key to update the
function and choose OK to exit the Conductivity Function dialog.
8. Double-click on any face of the dam to select the whole region.
9. Right-mouse click and select Properties from the menu to bring up the Region Properties sheet.
10. Click on the Material tab and select Sandy Clay for the Material.
11. Close the Properties sheet.
Save and Solve the Problem

1. Choose Save from the File menu.
2. Type "Tutorial 1" in the File Name edit box and select Save.
3. Click on the Solve Button in the Project toolbar to begin solving.
4. A Solve Window is displayed showing the iteration status of the solving process.
33 GeoStudio
View the Results

Click on the View Contours button in the View toolbar to see the color contours.
View the Hull Contours

1. Expand the Result Sets Object by clicking on the plus "+" in the tree view.
2. Right-mouse click on ResultSet-1 and select Properties from the menu to display the Results Set Properties
sheet.
3. Click on the Contours tab, select Pressure Head from the Parameter list and close the Results Set Properties
sheet.
The pressures heads are displayed as contours.
4. To change the display opacity of the contours, right-mouse click on the HullContour object in the Results Set
and select Properties from the menu. From the Detail tab you can use the slider to display an opacity on the hull
contours.
View the Piezometric Surface

1. By default, the piezometric surface is displayed together with result contours, to view the piezometric surface
right-mouse click on the HullContour object and select Properties.
2. Select the Detail tab and adjust the opacity slider to 0%.
The piezometric surface is now visible.
View an Iso-surface
1. To view other iso-surfaces, right-mouse click on the Isosurface object and choose Properties from the menu.
2. Select the Detail tab and choose Pressure Head from the list of available parameters.
3. Enter a value of 2, and set the color to yellow.
The pressure head surface is displayed.
View a Result Point

1. Right-mouse click on a ResultPoint in the tree view and select Properties from the menu.
2. Click the Geometry tab to view the exact coordinates of the result point.
3. Click the Data tab to view the computed results on this point.
34 Seep3D
4. Click the Expand button to display a detailed view of the data.
5. Click the Graph button to graph the data.
View a Result Cut Line

1. To view result on a line segment across the domain, right-click on ResultLine-2 and click Properties from the
shortcut menu.
2. Click the Geometry tab to view the exact coordinates and grid spacing of the result line.
3. Click the Data tab and select Pressure Head from the parameters list, the computed pressure heads of all points
are displayed.
View a Result Cut Plane

1. To view results on a plane cutting across the domain, right-click ResultPlane-2 and choose Properties from the
shortcut menu.
2. Click the Geometry tab to view the exact coordinates and grid spacing of the result plane.
3. Click the Detail tab and check the Display Contours and Display Vectors checkboxes.
4. To adjust the cut plane grid spacing, select the Geometry tab and edit the values.
5. The Result Cut Plane with the contours and vectors is displayed.
View a Flux Quantity

1. To view the computed flux quantity, click the View Regions button to display the domain.
2. Select the upstream face and right-mouse click to display the shortcut menu.
3. Choose Display Flux from the shortcut menu and a Flux dialog box is displayed.
For a mass balance, select both the upstream and downstream faces while holding down the Control (CTRL)
key. The Flux dialog box displays the total flux in (positive), total flux out (negative) and the net flux.
A Transient Analysis of a Homogeneous Earth Dam

This tutorial introduces you to Seep3D by presenting the step-by-step procedures involved in setting up and solving
the transient analysis of a simple homogeneous dam. By executing each step in the sequence presented, you will be
able to define a problem, solve the problem, and view the results. The data file, Tutorial2.gsp, is installed with the
software in the Examples folder.
35 GeoStudio
The following is a sketch of the homogenous earth dam. The initial condition is assumed to be a steady state
condition with the water level at the bottom of the reservoir. The objective is to examine the transient seepage
through the earth dam with the reservoir water level being step up to full supply level instantaneously.
In this tutorial we will use a constant K function and assume instantaneous filling of the reservoir to 9 meters. The
transient analysis will illustrate the intermediate location of the piezometric surfaces throughout the filling process.
Define the Grid Spacing

1. From the View Menu, select Grid & Snapping.
2. Accept the default setting for this tutorial.
Set the Steady State Analysis Properties

1. Expand the Analysis Object by clicking on the plus "+" in the tree view.
2. Right-mouse click on the Analysis-1 item and select Properties from the menu.
3. Type "Steady State" in the Name field.
5. Select the Time Tab and select the Steady State option.
6. Close the Property Sheet.
Set the Transient Analysis Properties

1. Create a new Analysis by right-mouse clicking on the Analysis Object in the tree view and selecting New
Analysis from the menu. Right-mouse click on the Analysis-2 item and select Properties from the menu.
2. Type "Transient" in the Name field.
4. Select the Time Tab and choose the Transient option.
5. Set the Initial Conditions by selecting the "Steady State" analysis.
6. Click the Generate button to generate the time steps.
7. Set the starting time to zero and the number of time steps to twelve.
8. Set the initial increment size to ten-thousand and the expansion factor to 1.5.
9. Start saving the results at Step 2 and save multiples of two.
10. Click Generate and close the Time Steps dialog box
36 Seep3D
Create the Region

1. Drag a hex region from the Catalog Window to the workspace.
2. Select one of the faces of the hex by clicking on it.
3. Grab the manipulator knob by hovering over it until it turns from red to yellow.
4. Elongate the hex to the desired shape by pulling on the manipulator knobs.
5. Create the upstream and downstream faces of the dam as shown by selecting the top face of the hex and pushing
the manipulator knobs inward to create the crest of the earth dam.
Mesh the Region

1. Click on the View Mesh button from the View toolbar to see the default mesh. By default the number of
divisions are set at 2.
2. Click on the View Regions button to refine the mesh.
3. Hover over the top edge of the dam on the downstream side, the line will change from blue to pink.
4. Right-mouse click on this line, choose Properties from the menu and select the Mesh tab from the Curve
Properties sheet.
5. Enter 5 as the Target Number of Divisions.
6. Keep the Curve Properties sheet open, move your mouse along the crest of the dam and select one of the side
edges.
7. Under the Mesh tab set the Target Number of Divisions to 10.
8. Click on the View Mesh button to see the refined mesh.

37 GeoStudio
Establish the Boundary Conditions

1. Expand the Boundary Conditions Object by clicking the plus "+" in the tree view.
2. Right-mouse click the boundary condition and select Properties from the shortcut menu.
3. Type "Downstream Potential Seepage Face" in the Name field.
4. Click the Detail tab, select Potential Seepage Face for the Type and set the Surface Flux Value to zero.
5. Create a new boundary condition by right-mouse clicking the Boundary Conditions Object in the tree view.
Select New Boundary Condition from the shortcut menu.
6. Type "Head=0" in the Name Field.
7. Click the Detail tab, select Head for the Type and set the Value to zero.
8. Create a new boundary condition by right-mouse clicking the Boundary Conditions Object in the tree view.
Select New Boundary Condition from the shortcut menu.
9. Type "Head=9" in the Name Field.
10. Click the Detail tab, select Head for the Type and set the Value to nine.
11. To specify the boundary condition for the initial steady state analysis, select Steady State from the Active
Analysis drop-down list on the tree menu and then rotate the dam to view the upstream face.
12. Select the lower edge of the upstream face and right-mouse click to open the Curve Properties sheet.
13. Select the BC's tab and set the Boundary Condition to Head=0. Keep the Curve Properties sheet open.
14. Rotate the dam to view the downstream face.
15. Select the downstream face and from the BC's tab and set the Boundary Condition to Potential Seepage Face.
16. Set the boundary conditions for the transient analysis by selecting Transient from the Active Analysis drop-
down list and then rotate the dam to view the upstream face.
17. Select the upstream face and from the BC's tab and set the Boundary Condition to Head=9.
18. Rotate the dam to view the downstream face.
19. Select the downstream face and from the BC's tab and set the Boundary Condition to Potential Seepage Face.
Define and Apply the Material

1. Expand the Materials Object by clicking on the plus "+" in the tree view.
2. Right-mouse click on Material-1 and select Properties from the menu.

38 Seep3D
3. Type "Sandy Clay" in the Name field.
4. Select the Conductivity tab and choose the Edit Conductivity Function button.
5. Type 1e-006 for the Kx at pressure = 0 value.
6. Choose the Function>> button to expand the Conductivity Function for editing.
7. Add a new point by typing -100 for the Pressure 1e-006 for the Conductivity. Use the TAB key to update the
function and choose OK to exit the Conductivity Function dialog.
8. Select the Vol. Water Content tab and choose the Edit Water Content button.
9. Type 0.3 for the Vol. Water Content at pressure = 0 value.
10. Type 0.0001 for the Coef. of Volume Compressibility (Mv).
11. Choose the Function>> button to expand and view the Volumetric Water Content function.
12. Add a second point by typing -100 for the Pressure and 0.1 for Water Content.
13. Click the New Point Button and type -200 for the X value and 0.09 for the Y value.
14 Choose OK to close the dialog.
15 Double-click on any face of the dam to select the whole region and select Steady State from the Active Analysis
drop-down list.
16 Right-mouse click and select Properties from the menu to bring up the Region Properties sheet.
17 Click on the Material tab and select Sandy Clay for the Material.
18 Keeping the Region Properties sheet open, select Transient from the Active Analysis drop-down list.
19 From the Material tab and select Sandy Clay for the Material.
20. Close the Properties sheet.
Save and Solve the Problem

1. Choose Save from the File menu.
2. Type "Tutorial 1" in the File Name edit box and select Save.
3. Select Steady State from the Current Analysis menu on the top toolbar or right-click on Steady State from the
Active Analysis drop-down list in the tree menu and Set as Current Analysis.
4. Click on the Solve button in the Project toolbar to begin solving.
A Solve Window is displayed showing the iteration status of the solving process.
View the Results

To view the results click the View Contours button in the View toolbar. By default, the solution of the last solved
time step is displayed with a total head contour on the hull of the problem and the piezometric surface.
View the Hull Contours

1. Expand the Result Set Object by clicking the plus "+" in the tree view.
39 GeoStudio
2. Expand the default ResultSet-1 Object by clicking the plus "+" in the tree view.
3. Right-mouse click ResultSet-1 and select Properties from the shortcut menu to bring up the Properties sheet.
4. Click the Contours tab and select Pressure Head from the list of parameters.
5. To change the display opacity of the result contours, right-mouse click HullContour-1 and select Properties
from the shortcut menu. You can edit the display opacity of the hull contours by moving the slider to the right
or left. By default the opacity of the hull contours are set to 50%.
6. To view the hull contours at time step 6, select 6 from the Current Time Steps drop-down list.
The pressure head contours are displayed for Time Step 6.
View a Piezometric Surface

By default, the piezometric surface is always defined together with the hull contours.
1. To view the piezometric surface, right-mouse click HullContour-1 and select Properties from the shortcut menu.
2. Click the Detail tab and move the opacity slider to 0% to view the piezometric surface without the hull
contours.
View an Iso-surface
To view a different iso-surface, right-mouse click on Isosurface-1 and select Properties from the shortcut menu.
1. Click the Detail tab and select Head from the list of parameters.
2. Enter a value of 2, and set the colour to yellow.
The total head contour is displayed.
View a Result Point

1. To view result on a point, right-mouse click ResultPoint-3 and select Properties from the shortcut menu.
2. Click the Geometry tab to view the exact coordinates of the point.
3. Click the Data tab to view the computed results of the point.
View a Result Cut Line

To view the results on a line segment that crosses the domain.
1. Right-mouse click ResultLine-2 and select Properties from the shortcut menu.
2. Click the Geometry tab to review the exact coordinates and grid spacing of the cut line.
3. Click the Data tab and select pressure head from the parameters, the computed pressure heads of all points on
the line are displayed.

40 Seep3D
View a Result Cut Plane

To view the results on a cut plane that crosses the domain.
1. Right-mouse click on ResultPlane-1 and select Properties from the shortcut menu.
2. Click the Geometry tab to view the exact coordinates and grid spacing of the cut line.
3. Choose the Connect to Face option and select a Surface from the drop-down list box.
4. Click the Detail tab and select the Display Contours check box.
5. The result plane for the selected surface is displayed.
View the Flux Quantities

To view the computed flux quantities.
1. Click the View Regions button.
2. Select the upstream face with the mouse, the face will change color.
3. Right-mouse click the selected face and choose Display Flux from the shortcut menu.
The Flux dialog box is displayed.
For a mass balance, select both the upstream and downstream faces while holding down the Control (CTRL) key.
The Flux dialog box displays the total flux in (positive), total flux out (negative) and the net flux. The net flux
represents the flux being stored (positive) or released (negative) in the soil system at a certain time step during a
transient analysis.
41 GeoStudio
The Help system

The online help for Seep3D is a compiled Microsoft HTML Help system. It provides information about using
Seep3D's features as well as step-by-step help to guide you through the program's basic functionality.
The help system is designed to open in the HTML Help viewer — Microsoft's help window for viewing compiled
HTML Help. If you do not have the HTML Help viewer components installed on your system, you can view it with
Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser (use version 4.x or later for complete functionality).
The help system is best viewed with the Window's Verdana font. Verdana is included with Internet Explorer 4.x or
later. You can also download this free font from Microsoft's Web site.
These topics are organized into three main topic areas: general topics about using the Help Viewer, topics about
using search functionality, and topics on changing the appearance of the Help Viewer. We've also included Related
Topics links at the end of each file. You may need to modify or update these to correspond with your help design.
The HTML Help Viewer

These related topics describe most of the general features available in the Help Viewer.
The help file as it appears in the HTML Help Viewer.
Getting more out of help

Here are some tips on how to find more information when using the HTML Help Viewer:
• To link to another topic, a Web page, a list of other topics, or a program, click the colored, underlined words.
• To view topics that contain related information, click the words, "Related Topics," which may appear at the end
of a topic, and then click the title of the topic you want.
• To see if a word or phrase contained in a topic is in the index, select the word, and then press F1.
42 Seep3D
• If you are viewing content from the Web in the Topic pane, you can click Stop or Refresh on the toolbar to
interrupt a download or refresh a Web page.
• If you use a particular help topic often, you can add it to your favorites list.
• Right-click the Contents tab or Topic pane for shortcut menu commands.
To find a help topic

In the Navigation pane, click one of the following tabs:
• To browse through a table of contents, click the Contents tab. The table of contents is an expandable list of
important topics.
• To see a list of index entries, click the Index tab, and then type a word or scroll through the list. Topics are
often indexed under more than one entry.
• To locate every occurrence of a word or phrase that may be contained in a help file, click the Search tab, and
then type the word.
NOTE: Click the contents entry, index entry, or search results entry to display the corresponding topic.
To create a list of favorite help topics

1. Locate the help topic you want to make a favorite topic.
2. Click the Favorites tab, and then click Add.
NOTE: To return to a favorite topic, click the Favorites tab, select the topic, and then click Display. If you
want to rename a topic, select the topic, and then type a new name in the Current topic box. To remove a
favorite topic, select the topic and then click Remove.
To copy a help topic

1. In the Topic pane, right-click the topic you want to copy, and then click Select All.
2. Right-click again, and then click Copy. This copies the topic to the Clipboard.
3. Open the document you want to copy the topic to.
4. Position your cursor where you want the information to appear.
5. On the Edit menu, click Paste.
NOTE: If you want to copy only part of a topic, select the text you want to copy, right-click, and then click
Copy.
To print the current help topic

• Right-click a topic, and then click Print.
NOTE: If you print from the Contents tab (by right-clicking an entry, and then clicking Print) you will see
options to print only the current topic, or the current topic and all subtopics.
To get help in a dialog box

• Click the question mark in the upper-right corner of the dialog box, and then click an item in the dialog box.
43 GeoStudio
NOTE: To close the pop-up window, click anywhere on the screen. If the dialog box does not have the ,
click Help, or press F1. You can also get help on an item by right-clicking it. Not all dialog boxes include
dialog box help.
To find topics using the toolbar buttons

There are five navigational buttons that can be located on the toolbar in the Help Viewer. You can click these
buttons to find help topics:
• Back displays the last topic you viewed.
• Forward displays the next topic in a previously displayed sequence of topics.
• Next displays the next topic listed in the table of contents.
• Previous displays the previous topic listed in the table of contents.
• Home displays the Home page topic for the help file you are viewing.
• Refresh updates Web content that is currently displayed in the Topic pane.
• Stop stops downloading file information. Click this button to stop a Web page from downloading.
NOTE: The toolbar in your Help Viewer may not contain all of these navigational buttons.
To hide or show the Navigation pane

• On the toolbar, click Hide or Show to close or display the Navigation pane, which contains the Contents,
Index, Search, and Favorites tabs.
NOTE: If you close the Help Viewer with the Navigation pane hidden, it will appear that way when you open
the Help Viewer again.
Using accessibility shortcut keys in the Help Viewer

The following keyboard shortcuts can be used for navigation in the HTML Help Viewer. The help author who builds
a compiled help (.chm) file can specify which buttons appear on the Help Viewer toolbar, so some of these options
may not be available in your version of the viewer.
For more information about accessibility features and services, visit the Microsoft Accessibility and Disabilities
Web site.
44 Seep3D
For the Help Viewer:
To Press
Close the Help Viewer. ALT+F4
Switch between the Help Viewer and other open ALT+TAB

windows.
Display the Options menu. ALT+O
Change Microsoft Internet Explorer settings. ALT+O, and then press I

The Internet Options dialog box contains
accessibility settings. To change these settings
click the General tab, and then click
Accessibility.
Hide or show the Navigation pane. ALT+O, and then press T
Print a topic. ALT+O, and then press P, or right-click in the
Move back to the previous topic. ALT+LEFT ARROW, or ALT+O, and then
press B
Move forward to the next topic (provided you ALT+RIGHT ARROW, or ALT+O, and then
have viewed it just previously). press F
Turn on or off search highlighting. ALT+O, and then press O
Refresh the topic that appears in the Topic pane F5, or ALT+O, and then press R
(this is useful if you have linked to a Web page).
Return to the home page (help authors can ALT+O, and then press H
specify a home page for a help system).
Stop the viewer from opening a page (this is also ALT+O, and then press S
useful if you are linking to the Web and want to
stop a page from downloading).
Jump to a predetermined topic or Web page. The ALT+O, and then press 1 or 2
help author who builds a compiled help (.chm)
file can add two links, on the Options menu, to
important topics or Web pages. When you select
a Jump command you go to one of those topics
or Web pages.
Switch between the Navigation pane and the F6

Topic pane.
Scroll through a topic. UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW, or PAGE

UP and PAGE DOWN
Scroll through all the links in a topic or through TAB

all the options on a Navigation pane tab.
45 GeoStudio
For the Contents tab:
To Press
Display the Contents tab. ALT+C
Open and close a book or folder. PLUS SIGN and MINUS SIGN, or LEFT ARROW
and RIGHT ARROW
Select a topic. DOWN ARROW and UP ARROW
Display the selected topic. ENTER
For the Index tab:
To Press
Display the Index tab. ALT+N
Type a keyword to search for. ALT+W, and then type the word
Select a keyword in the list. UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW
Display the associated topic. ALT+D
For the Search tab:
To Press
Display the Search tab. ALT+S
Type a keyword to search for. ALT+W, and then type the word
Start a search. ALT+L
Select a topic in the results list. ALT+T, and then UP ARROW and DOWN
ARROW
Display the selected topic. ALT+D
The following options are only available if full-text search is enabled.
Search for a keyword in the result list of a ALT+U

prior search.
Search for words similar to the keyword. ALT+M

For example, to find words like "running"
and "runs" for the keyword "run."
Only search through topic titles. ALT+R

46 Seep3D
For the Favorites tab:
To Press
Display the Favorites tab. ALT+I
Add the currently displayed topic to the ALT+A

Favorites list.
Select a topic in the Favorites list. ALT+P, and then UP ARROW and DOWN
ARROW
Display the selected topic. ALT+D
Remove the selected topic from the list. ALT+R
NOTES: There are also shortcut menu commands that can be accessed through the keyboard. Shortcut keys also
work in secondary and pop-up windows. Every time you use a shortcut key in the Navigation pane, you lose focus
in the Topic pane. To return to the Topic pane, press F6. The Match similar words check box, on the Search tab,
will be selected if you used it for your last search.
Using the shortcut menu commands

There are several commands on the shortcut menu that you can use to display and customize information.
Command Description
Right-click in the table of contents, and Opens all books or folders in the table of contents.
then click Open All. This command only works if the Contents tab is
displayed.
Right-click in the table of contents, and Closes all books or folders. This command only
then click Close All. works if the Contents tab is displayed.
Right-click, and then click Print. Prints the topic.
Right-click in the table of contents, and Opens the Customize Information Wizard, which
then click Customize allows you to customize the documentation. If the
help file was built with information types, you can
use this wizard to select a subset of topics to view.
For example, you could choose to see only overview
topics.
NOTE: These commands can be accessed through the keyboard. You can click SHIFT+F10 to display the shortcut
menu, and then click the appropriate shortcut keys. Or, you can enable Mousekeys. Use a Mousekey combination to
display the shortcut menu, and then click the appropriate shortcut keys.
To turn on MouseKeys
1. Open the Accessibility Properties dialog box.
2. Click the Mouse tab.
3. Select the Use MouseKeys check box.

47 GeoStudio
NOTE: You can also open the Accessibility Properties dialog box by clicking Start, pointing to Settings, clicking
Control Panel, and then double-clicking Accessibility Options.
About the Search tab

These topics describe the features available if you include a Search tab in your help design.
A compiled help file can include a Search tab that allows a user to search through every word in a help file to find a
match. For example, if a user does a full-text search on the word "index," every topic that contains the word "index"
will be listed.
Depending on how complex your help system is, the Search tab can contain either basic or advanced full-text search
functionality. Advanced full-text search allows a user to search using boolean, wildcard, and nested expressions.
NOTE: To see an example of a basic search, click the Search tab in this file.To see an example of Advanced full-
text search, click the Search tab in the help file for HTML Help Workshop.
To use full-text search
1. Click the Search tab, and then type the word or phrase you want to find.
2. Click List Topics, select the topic you want, and then click Display.
To highlight words in searched topics

When searching for words in help topics, you can have each occurrence of the word or phrase highlighted in the
topics that are found.
To highlight all instances of a search word or phrase, click Options on the toolbar, and then click Search Highlight
On.
NOTE: To turn off this option, click Options on the toolbar, and then click Search Highlight Off. If you are
viewing a long topic, only the first 500 instances of a search word or phrase will be highlighted.
About advanced full-text search

Advanced full-text search allows you to search using boolean, wildcard, and nested expressions. You can also limit
the search to previous results, match similar words, or search topic titles only. When advanced full-text search is
enabled, the Search tab in the Help Viewer is enhanced.
Searching for help topics

A basic search consists of the word or phrase you want to find. You can use wildcard expressions, nested
expressions, boolean operators, similar word matches, a previous results list, or topic titles to further define your
search.
The basic rules for formulating queries are as follows:
• Searches are not case-sensitive, so you can type your search in uppercase or lowercase characters.
• You may search for any combination of letters (a-z) and numbers (0-9).
• Punctuation marks such as the period, colon, semicolon, comma, and hyphen are ignored during a search.
• Group the elements of your search using double quotes or parentheses to set apart each element. You cannot
search for quotation marks.
48 Seep3D
NOTE: If you are searching for a file name with an extension, you should group the entire string in double
quotes, ("filename.ext"). Otherwise, the period will break the file name into two separate terms. The default
operation between terms is AND, so you will create the logical equivalent to "filename AND ext."
To find information with advanced full-text search

1. Click the Search tab, and then type the word or phrase you want to find.
2. Click to add boolean operators to your search.
4. To sort the topic list, click the Title, Location, or Rank column heading.
NOTE: You can precisely define a search by using wildcard expressions, nested expressions, and boolean
operators. You can request similar word matches, search only the topic titles, or search the results of a previous
search. You can set the Help Viewer to highlight all instances of search terms that are found in topic files.
Click the Options button, and then click Search Highlight On. This feature only works with Internet Explorer
4.0 or later.
Searching for words or phrases

You can search for words or phrases and use wildcard expressions. Wildcard expressions allow you to search for
one or more characters using a question mark or asterisk. The table below describes the results of these different
kinds of searches.
Search for Example Results
A single word Select Topics that contain the word "select." (You will also
find its grammatical variations, such as "selector" and
"selection.")
A phrase "newoperator" or Topics that contain the literal phrase "new operator"
and all its grammatical variations.
new operator
Without the quotation marks, the query is equivalent
to specifying "new AND operator," which will find
topics containing both of the individual words,
instead of the phrase.
Wildcard esc* Topics that contain the terms "ESC," "escape,"

expressions "escalation," and so on. The asterisk cannot be the
or only character in the term.
80?86 Topics that contain the terms "80186," "80286,"
"80386," and so on. The question mark cannot be the
only character in the term.
NOTE: Select the Match similar words check box to include minor grammatical variations for the phrase you
search.
Defining search terms

The AND, OR, NOT, and NEAR operators enable you to precisely define your search by creating a relationship
between search terms. The following table shows how you can use each of these operators. If no operator is
specified, AND is used. For example, the query "spacing border printing" is equivalent to "spacing AND border
AND printing."
49 GeoStudio
Search for Example Results

Both terms in the same topic. dib AND palette Topics containing both the words "dib" and
"palette."
Either term in a topic. raster OR vector Topics containing either the word "raster"
or the word "vector" or both.
The first term without the ole NOT dde Topics containing the word "OLE," but not
second term. the word "DDE."
Both terms in the same topic, user NEAR kernel Topics containing the word "user" within
close together. eight words of the word "kernel."
NOTE: The |, &, and ! characters don't work as boolean operators (you must use OR, AND, and NOT).
Using nested expressions when searching

Nested expressions allow you to create complex searches for information. For example, "control AND ((active OR
dde) NEAR window)" finds topics containing the word "control" along with the words "active" and "window" close
together, or containing "control" along with the words "dde" and "window" close together.
The basic rules for searching help topics using nested expressions are as follows:
• You can use parentheses to nest expressions within a query. The expressions in parentheses are evaluated before
the rest of the query.
• If a query does not contain a nested expression, it is evaluated from left to right. For example: "Control NOT
active OR dde" finds topics containing the word "control" without the word "active," or topics containing the
word "dde." On the other hand, "control NOT (active OR dde)" finds topics containing the word "control"
without either of the words "active" or "dde."
• You cannot nest expressions more than five levels deep.
To search for words in the titles of HTML files

1. Click the Search tab, type the word or phrase you want to find, and then select the Search titles only check box.
NOTE: If you use this option, all HTML topic files will be searched, including any that are not listed in the table of
contents.
To find words similar to your search term

This feature enables you to include minor grammatical variations for the phrase you search. For example, a search
on the word "add" will find "add," "adds," and "added."
1. Click the Search tab, type the word or phrase you want to find, and then select the Match similar words check
box.
NOTE: This feature only locates variations of the word with common suffixes. For example, a search on the word
"add" will find "added," but it will not find "additive."
50 Seep3D
To search only the last group of topics you searched

This feature enables you to narrow a search that results in too many topics found. You can search through your
results list from previous search by using this option.
1. On the Search tab, select the Search previous results check box.
NOTE: If you want to search through all of the files in a help system, this check box must be cleared. The
Search tab will open with this check box selected if you previously used this feature.
About changing the Help Viewer

You can make a variety of changes to the Help Viewer. These related topics describe settings the user can specify.
To customize the Help Viewer

There are a few ways to easily change the size and position of the Help Viewer and the panes in the viewer:
• To resize the Navigation or Topic pane, point to the divider between the two panes. When the pointer changes
to a double-headed arrow, drag the divider right or left.
• To proportionately shrink or enlarge the whole Help Viewer, point to any corner of the Help Viewer. When the
pointer changes to a double-headed arrow, drag the corner.
• To change the height or width of the Help Viewer, point to the top, bottom, left, or right edge of the Help
Viewer. When the pointer changes to a double-headed arrow, drag the edge.
• To reposition the Help Viewer on your screen, click the title bar and drag the Viewer to a new position.
NOTE: The Help Viewer will appear with the last size and position settings you specified when it is opened
again.
To change formatting or styles for accessibility

1. On the Options menu, click Internet Options, and then click Accessibility.
2. In the Accessibility dialog box, select the options you want, and then click OK.
NOTE: These changes do not apply to the Navigation pane or toolbar of the Help Viewer. This will also
change your accessibility settings for Internet Explorer 4.0.
To view help topics grouped by information type

You can customize your help system so that it includes only those help topics that are relevant to you.
Suppose for example, that you have a help system for an educational software program that includes topics aimed at
administrators, teachers, and students. You can customize your help so that it includes only the topics that are
important to teachers and students.
On the toolbar, click Options, and then click Customize.
To change the font size of a topic

On the Options menu, click Internet Options, and then click Fonts.
NOTE: These changes do not apply to the Navigation pane or toolbar of the Help Viewer. This will also change
your font settings for Internet Explorer.
51 GeoStudio
To change colors in the Topic pane of the Help Viewer

1. In Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0, on the View menu, click Internet Options.
2. On the General tab, click Colors.
3. In the Colors dialog box, select the options you want, and then click OK.
4. To apply the new color settings, in the Internet Options dialog box, click OK.
NOTE: These changes do not apply to the Navigation pane or toolbar of the Help Viewer. This will also
change your color settings for Internet Explorer 4.0.
52 Seep3D
GeoStudio Workspace
GeoStudio is an integrated modeling workspace. It contains customizable windows, toolbars, and menus.
GeoStudio contains Tree View, 3D View, 3D Controls, and Catalog windows. GeoStudio contains Standard,
Project, Results, and View toolbars.
GeoStudio Menu
The following commands are available either from the menu bar or from the shortcut menu when you right-click the
GeoStudio workspace.
Print: Prints the current contents of the 3D View. A dialog box is displayed, allowing you to select the printer
name, change its properties, and set the number of copies to print. When you select OK, the 3D View will be printed
at a size that fits the printer page.
Print Preview: Displays each page as it will look when printed on the selected printer.
Print Setup: Allows you to select a printer and change its properties, including; Name, Properties, Paper,
Orientation and Network.
Exit: Quits GeoStudio. You will be prompted to save your current project first if any changes have been made.
Undo: Reverses the last command or deletes the last entry you typed. To reverse more than one action at a time,
click the arrow next to the menu item and then click the actions you want to undo.
Redo: Repeats your last command or action, if possible. The Redo command reverses the action of the Undo
command.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected object.
Cascade: Displays the open windows in the 3D View, stacked and cascading from the top left to the bottom right
of the screen.
Tile: Displays the open windows in the 3D View edge to edge.
Arrange Icons: Displays and arranges the minimized drawing as image icons along the bottom of the 3D View.
Help: Displays the Help. Use the Help Topics command to access the Help system. Help topics may be accessed
from the table of contents, from an index, or by searching for specific words.
About GeoStudio: Displays copyright information about GeoStudio.
Menus & Toolbars

GeoStudio's menus and toolbars provide quick and easy access to the most commonly-used commands. You can
move the toolbars to any location in the window. You can also open and close any combination of them to suit your
needs.
Standard Toolbar Commands:

New: The New command clears any existing project data and initializes a new workspace for a new project. You
will be prompted to save your current project first.
Open: The Open command opens an existing GeoStudio project file.
Save: The Save command saves the current project as a GeoStudio Project File.
Copy: Copies the contents of the 3D View to the clipboard.

53 GeoStudio
command.
Copy: Copies the contents of the 3D Window to the clipboard.
View Toolbar Commands

Current Result Set: Sets the selected result set to be the current result set.
Current Time Steps: Displays the selected time steps in a transient analysis.
Grid & Snapping: Sets the grid and snap spacing.
View Mesh: Displays the finite element mesh in the active 3D View Window. The mesh on faces of regions that
are turned on for display are shown in this view.
View Regions: Displays the regions, edges, and points in the active 3D View Window. Regions are displayed
with their assigned material color. This view allows interactive editing of the domain and is used primarily to define
the problem geometry.
View Results: Displays results in the active 3D View Window. This view can be thought of as a postprocessor or
data visualization view. If results are available then this view can be used to display contours, isosurfaces, flow lines
and vectors generated from the finite element solution. These entities are specified in a Results Set. If results are not
available (e.g., problem wasn't solved) then a wireframe image of the domain is drawn.
View Boundary Conditions: Displays locations where boundary conditions are applied to the domain. All
region objects are drawn in a neutral gray color (material colors are not displayed in this view) and boundary
conditions are displayed in their assigned colors. Regions, faces, edges, and points are selectable in this view, but are
not interactively editable. It is possible to interactively edit boundary conditions on region faces in this view. A
region entity may not be selectable in this view if a boundary condition obscures it. For example, if a region edge
has a boundary condition applied to it and you click on the edge, the boundary condition location will be selected
and the underlying region edge will not be selected.
Results Toolbar Commands

New Result Set: Creates a new result set containing a default set of visualization objects.
New Result Plane: Creates a new result plane at a default location.
New Result Line: Creates a new result line at a default location.
New Result Point: Creates a new result point at a default location.
New Isosurface: Creates a new isosurface of a default parameter and value.
New Hull Contours: Creates hull contours of the parameter to contour for the result set. Only one hull contour
object is relevant per result set.
Auto Calculate: A toggle mode that automatically recalculates the results and updates 3D Results View when
selected.
Recalculate: Recalculates the results and updates 3D Results View when selected.
54 Seep3D
Project Toolbar Commands

New Analysis: Creates a new analysis and makes it the current analysis.
New Boundary Condition: Creates a new boundary condition.
New Material: Creates a new material.
New Free Point: Creates a new free point.
Current Material: Sets the current material.
Current Analysis: Displays the selected analysis in the current 3D View.
Solve: Computes the finite element solution after the problem has been defined.
Tree View Window

The Tree View provides a hierarchical view of the objects comprising the finite element model.
At the top of this hierarchy is the Project. Currently GeoStudio is limited to one project per session. A project
consists of Analyses, Boundary Conditions, Materials, Result Sets and a Domain.
Selecting Objects in the Tree View

An object is selected in the Tree View by clicking on its icon. Multiple selections are made by holding down the
CTRL key while clicking on each item you want to select.
To select a group of objects that are next to each other in the Tree View, select the first item by clicking on it, hold
down the SHIFT key and then select the last item by clicking on it.
Objects can also be selected in the 3D View.
3D View
The 3D view provides extensive context menu support (right mouse click on the 3D View) for doing the most
common tasks. The context menu items that are displayed are applicable to the object(s) currently selected.
3D View Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or from the context menu in the 3D View:
Grid & Snapping: Sets the grid and snap spacing. The wall extents of the analysis can be set precisely or auto-
updated to fit the domain. Snapping applies to the interactive editing modes of the 3D View (e.g., dragging a region
face by its normal manipulator knob).
View Mesh: Displays the finite element mesh in the active 3D View Window. The mesh on faces of regions that
are turned on for display are shown in this view.
View Regions: Displays the regions, edges, and points in the active 3D View Window. Regions are displayed
with their assigned material color. This view allows interactive editing of the domain and is used primarily to define
the problem geometry.
View Results: Displays results in the active 3D View Window. This view can be thought of as a postprocessor or
data visualization view. If results are available then this view can be used to display contours, isosurfaces, flow lines
and vectors generated from the finite element solution. These entities are specified in a Results Set. If results are not
available (e.g., problem wasn't solved) then a wireframe image of the domain is drawn.
View Boundary Conditions: Displays locations where boundary conditions are applied to the domain. All region
objects are drawn in a neutral gray color (material colors are not displayed in this view) and boundary conditions are
55 GeoStudio
displayed in their assigned colors. Regions, faces, edges, and points are selectable in this view, but are not
interactively editable. It is possible to interactively edit boundary conditions on region faces in this view. A region
entity may not be selectable in this view if a boundary condition obscures it. For example, if a region edge has a
boundary condition applied to it and you click on the edge, the boundary condition location will be selected and the
underlying region edge will not be selected.
Options: Modifies the user preferences for the 3D View (preferences for colors, walls, shadows, cross hairs,
gnomon, contour legend).
Zoom: Zoom in or Zoom out by clicking the zoom button and dragging the mouse across the 3D View Window.
Dragging from left to right "zooms in" while dragging from right to left "zooms out". There are limits placed on
zooming (i.e., it is not infinite). Zooming is also available through the 3D Controls Window.
Pan: Translates the view in the plane of the window by clicking the pan button and dragging the mouse across the
3D View Window. The 3D View will follow your mouse cursor during this operation. Panning is also available
through the 3D Controls Window.
Rotate: Changes the viewing angle by clicking the rotate button and dragging the mouse across the 3D View (up,
down, left right). This rotation mode is constrained to two degrees of freedom (there is no twist introduced).
Copy: Copies the contents of the 3D View Window to the clipboard.
Translate Domain: Translates the entire domain by a specified x, y, z distance.
Scale Domain: Scales the entire domain in independent x, y, z directions. A scale factor of x = 2 doubles the size
of the regions in the x-direction. A scale factor of 1 leaves the component intact. A scale factor between 0 and 1.0
reduces the size of the region. Negative or zero scale factors are ignored.
Rotate Domain: Rotates the entire domain about a fixed point by specifying the rotation axis and a rotation angle.
Display Flux: Displays positive, negative, and total flux on selected faces, edges, and points. This context menu
items appears after the analysis is solved and is available in the View Regions View.
View Perpendicular to Face: Rotates the view so that the plane of the selected face is in the plane of the 3D
View Window.
View Extents: Translates the view (by zooming and panning only) so that the entire domain appears in the center
of the 3D view. The zoom factor is calculated such that the the domain is drawn as large as possible without any
portion of the domain being clipped by the window boundaries. View Extents also causes the center of rotation to be
adjusted to fall within the centroid of the domain (all subsequent rotations will be about this center point).
New Hex Region: Creates an new hex region on selected faces if possible. Currently this command is restricted to
operate on a maximum of three selected quadrilateral faces that are neighbors and occur on different regions. If three
faces are selected then the faces must must share one common point (i.e., an inside corner). If two faces are selected
the faces must share an edge.
New Prism Region: Creates a new prism region on selected faces if possible. Currently this command is
restricted to operate on a maximum of three selected faces that are neighbors and occur on different regions. If three
faces are selected then the faces must must share one common point (i.e., an inside corner). If two faces are selected
the faces must share an edge.
New Tet Region: Creates a new tetrahedral region on selected faces if possible. Currently this command is
restricted to operate on a maximum of three selected triangular faces that are neighbors and occur on different
regions. If three faces are selected then the faces must must share one common point (i.e., an inside corner). If two
faces are selected the faces must share an edge.
New Window: Opens a new window (initially in Results View mode) with the same domain as the active window
so you can view different parts of a file at the same time.
56 Seep3D
Selecting Objects in the 3D View

Objects can be selected in the 3D view by clicking on them with the mouse. Multiple selections can be made by
holding down the CTRL key while selecting objects. Regions are selected in the 3D view by double clicking on a
face. To clear the selection list in the 3D view, click on a wall. Objects can also be selected from the Tree View.
Objects become highlighted in the Tree View and 3D View once they are selected. Some objects display
manipulators in the 3D View when they are selected, indicating that these objects can be interactively edited in the
3D View. The following objects have manipulators: a single surface, multiply selected surfaces, corners of triangle
faces, boundary conditions on faces, result planes, result lines, result points, free points.
Catalog Window
The Catalog Window contains the 3D region objects that can be dragged and dropped onto the 3D Region View to
construct your model. These objects are currently set at three fundamental solid types: hexahedron, tetrahedron,
and prism.
Catalog Window Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click in the Catalog Window:
Small Icon: Display items in the catalog view as small icons.
Large Icon: Display items in the catalog view as large icons.
Hide: Hides the docked window.
Expand: Expands the docked window.
3D Controls Window
The 3D Controls Window allows you to change your viewing direction and position with respect to the 3D View.
3D Controls Commands
Zoom: Zoom in or Zoom out using the zoom thumbwheel in the 3D Controls Window. There are limits placed on
zooming (i.e., it is not infinite).
Pan: Translates the view in the plane of the window using the two panning thumbwheels in the 3D Controls
Window. A vertical thumbwheel is provided for panning in the vertical direction and the horizontal thumbwheel for
panning in the horizontal direction. By clicking the pan button and dragging the mouse across the 3D View Window
your 3D View will be panned along with your mouse cursor.
Rotate: Changes the viewing angle by rotating the view using the trackball (arcball) in the 3D Controls Window.
Think of using the arcball as you would rotating a ball in your hands. You are allowed to rotate it in any direction
and look at it from any angle. The arcball rotation maps directly to the 3D view rotation.
Zoom, pan, and rotate commands are also available from the 3D View Window context menu. The 3D Controls
operate immediately on the view as opposed to entering a special mode as with the zoom, pan and rotate commands
available through the 3D View Window context menu.
Undo and Redo commands do not apply to zooming, panning, and rotating your view.
57 GeoStudio
Object Reference
GeoStudio is based on the concept of "objects" that are combined together to create a 3D model. To create or change
a model, you simply create or change the properties of specific GeoStudio Objects. Each GeoStudio Object is
completely customizable and contains a Property sheet that can be used to change its properties. The GeoStudio
Tree View contains a complete list of the GeoStudio objects defined for a given project. Each object is grouped in
the Tree View according to its object type. You can expand any object type folder to view, select, edit, or define
individual objects of that type. Objects are also displayed in the GeoStudio 3D View. Right-clicking a selected
object displays a shortcut menu of commands that can be applied to the object.
The following lists the different types of GeoStudio Objects available:
Project: The Project object is the container for all objects in your 3D model. A project contains one Domain object,
but can contain many Analysis, Boundary Condition, Material, or Result Set objects.
Analysis: An Analysis object defines the settings for a specific Seep3D analysis. While you can have many
Analysis objects defined in a Project, one analysis is specified as the Current Analysis.
Boundary Condition: A Boundary Condition object defines the settings for a Seep3D boundary condition. A
Boundary Condition object can be applied to one or more Surface, Line, or Point objects in the Domain.
Material: A Material object defines Seep3D material properties, such as conductivity. A Material object can be
applied to one or more Region objects in the Domain.
Result Set: A Result Set object contains one or more of the following Result objects: Result Points, Result Lines,
Result Planes, Isosurfaces, and a Hull Contour.
Domain: A Domain object contains one or more of the following Domain objects: Solid Regions, Surfaces, Lines,
Points, and Free Points.
Project
The Project object is the container for all objects in your 3D model. A project contains one Domain object, but can
contain many Analysis, Boundary Condition, Material, or Result Set objects.
Project Property Sheet

To modify the Project properties, right-click a Project in the Tree View and select Properties. The following pages
are available on the Project property sheet:
Name Page:
This property page contains information for Seep3D as follows:
Name: A name for the project. This name cannot be modified.
Description: A text description of your project.
Detail Page:
Unit Weight of Water: This value must be in units that are consistent with the dimension of the flow problem.
Typically, this value is 9.807 when the problem is defined in meters and 62.4 when the problem is defined in feet.
License Page:
License File Name: The name of the license file currently in use. You can only create and analyze a problem if
you have a valid license file.
58 Seep3D
Licensed Product: The name of the product being licensed (i.e., Seep3D)
License Version: The version of the license. This is not the version of Seep3D. See Help About to display the
Seep3D version in use.
Serial Number: The unique serial number of your license.
Issue Date: The date the license was issued.
Start Date: The date the license becomes valid
Expiry Date: The date the license expires
Days Remaining Until Expiry: The number of days left until the license expires. Once it expires, you will have
to contact GEO-SLOPE to obtain a new license.
Server Computer: The name of the Server Computer used to manage floating licenses, if any.
Legal Notice: Copyright information.
License Issuer: The name of the company that issued the license (i.e., GEO-SLOPE).
Project Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click the project object:
New: The New command clears any existing project data and initializes a new workspace for a new project. You
will be prompted to save your current project first.
Open: The Open command opens an existing GeoStudio project file. You are first prompted to save any changes
that have been made to the current GeoStudio project. The Open dialog box will then appear. You can open either
GeoStudio Project Files or GeoStudio Script Files by selecting the appropriate file type in the dialog box.
NOTE: Script Files contain a list of commands that GeoStudio uses to recreate the project definition (i.e., the
analysis, domain, materials, boundary conditions, and result sets). Since Script Files do not contain the computed
results, you will need to solve the analysis again to see the results. Script Files are created using the Save As
command.
Project Files contain both the project definition and the analysis results. When you open a Project File, you can go
immediately to the Results View to display the computed results. Project Files are created using either the Save or
Save As command.
Close: The Close command closes the current GeoStudio project file. You are first prompted to save any changes
you have made to the current project. You can open the project again using the Open command.
Save: The Save command saves the current project as a GeoStudio Project File. Save writes the current project to
the data file name displayed in the window title bar. If you have not previously saved the project, you will be
prompted to enter a file name in the the Save As dialog box.
Save As: The Save As command saves the current project to a new GeoStudio Project File or GeoStudio Script
File. When you choose Save As, a dialog box appears, containing the current file name by default. You can then
enter a new file name or change the type of GeoStudio file to save.
NOTE: GeoStudio Script Files contain a list of commands that GeoStudio uses to recreate the project definition
(i.e., the analysis, domain, materials, boundary conditions, and result sets). Since Script Files do not contain the
computed results, you will need to solve the analysis again to see the results. Script Files are plain ASCII text files
and can be viewed with Windows Notepad.
59 GeoStudio
GeoStudio Project Files are the default file type to save. They contain both the project definition and the analysis
results. When you open a Project File, you can go immediately to the Results View to display the computed results.
Analysis
An Analysis object defines the settings for a specific Seep3D analysis. While you can have many Analysis objects
defined in a Project, one analysis is specified as the Current Analysis.
Analysis Property Sheet

To modify the properties of an Analysis, open the Seep3D Analyses folder in the Tree View, right-click on the
analysis name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Analysis property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the analysis. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of your analysis.
Type Page:
Type: The type of the analysis. The only type currently available is Seepage. Once other GeoStudio products are
available, more analysis types will be listed.
Linear (1 iteration): Option for a linear analysis that only iterates once.
Non-linear (multiple iterations): Option for a non-linear analysis that can iterate many times until convergence
is reached.
Time Page:
Steady-State: Option for time-independent problems. If you enable this property, you do not have to define the
Transient properties.
Transient: Option for time-dependent problems. If you enable this property, you will also need to define the
Transient properties.
Transient Properties:
Seep3D solves transient (time dependent) problems by discretizing the time domain into a series of incremental time
steps. The initial conditions for a given time step are the results from the previous time step. The first time step
uses the results from the analysis specified by the Initial Condition property.
Initial Condition: The analysis used as the Initial Condition for a transient analysis. This analysis must already be
defined within the current Project.
New Step: Adds a new time step to the transient analysis.
Generate: Displays a dialog box used to generate many time steps at once.
Step Size: The time that has elapsed since the previous time step.
Elapsed: The time that has elapsed since the beginning of the analysis.
60 Seep3D
Save: Check this box if you wish to save the results at this time step.
Time Step Table: The list of time steps that will be used by the analysis. You can edit each time step individually
by clicking on a cell in the table and changing its value. All other time steps will be updated as necessary. To add
or delete a time step, right-click on the left-side of the row and select "Insert Row" or "Delete Row". To create
many time steps all at once, select the Generate button.
Generate Time Steps Dialog Box:

When you select the Generate command on the Time page, a dialog box appears to let you generate many time steps
at once. The properties in this dialog box are as follows:
Starting time: The elapsed time before the analysis begins.
Number of time steps: The number of generated time steps (if this option is selected).
Total elapsed time: The elapsed time at the last generated time step (if this option is selected). The number of
time steps generated is calculated such that the last step will have this elapsed time.
Initial increment size: The amount of time to add to each time step.
Expansion factor: The factor by which the Initial Increment Size should increase with each step. For example, if
the Initial Increment Size is 1 and the Expansion Factor is 2, then the first step size will be 1 and each following step
size will double.
Maximum increment size: The maximum amount of time between each time step (if this option is selected).
Start saving at step: The first step number for which results should be stored.
Save multiples of: How often results should be saved. For example, if the first results are saved at the 4th step
and results are saved in multiples of 3, then results will be stored at the 4th step, the 7th step, the 10th step, etc.
Generate: Uses the properties in the dialog box to generate a list of time steps in the Time Steps table. Any time
steps already in the table will be over-written.
Time Steps Table: The list of time steps that will be used by the analysis. You can edit each time step
individually by clicking on a cell in the table and changing its value. All other time steps will be updated as
necessary. To add or delete a time step, right-click on the left-side of the row and select "Insert Row" or "Delete
Row".
Convergence Page:
Convergence Criteria Properties:

Tolerance: The desired difference between two successive iterations in the norm of the nodal head vectors and the
desired difference in the norm of the flux vectors. The iteration process stops if the difference in either case is less
than the specified tolerance. If the difference is greater than the tolerance, the iteration process continues until it
reaches the maximum number of iterations.
Maximum # of Iterations: The maximum number of iterations that the Solve command will execute in an
attempt to obtain a solution. Execution will come to a halt or move onto the next step if the iteration number reaches
the maximum specified.
Potential Seepage Maximum # of Iterations: The maximum number of iterations that the Solve command
will execute when evaluating a potential seepage location.
61 GeoStudio
Conductivity Change Properties:

Maximum Conductivity Change: The maximum change in orders of magnitude (log10) of the hydraulic
conductivity between two successive iterations. A value of 1 (the default value) means the hydraulic conductivity
can change as much as 1 order of magnitude between iterations. A value of 0.5 means the maximum change in
hydraulic conductivity between iterations is half an order of magnitude. A value of 0.05 is 0.05 orders of magnitude,
and so on.
Rate of Conductivity Change: The rate at which Maximum Conductivity Change diminishes with each
oscillation reversal in the convergence process. A value of 1.1 means, for example, that after the first oscillation
reversal, Maximum Conductivity Change is reduced to 0.91 (1.0/1.1). After the next oscillation reversal, the
Maximum Change is reduced to 0.83 (0.91/1.1) and so forth until it is less than the Minimum Change. Thereafter,
the Maximum Change is equal to the Minimum Change.
Minimum Conductivity Change: The lower limit on the value to which the Maximum Conductivity Change
can diminish. A value of 0.0001 means that the change in hydraulic conductivity from one iteration to the next is
0.0001 orders of magnitude.
Solver Page:
Equation Solver Properties:

Maximum # of Iterations: The maximum number of iterations that the iterative solver will execute internally to
solve its system of simultaneous equations.
Tolerance: The desired difference in the solution between two successive iterations of the iterative solver. The
iterative solver stops if the difference in either case is less than the specified tolerance. If the difference is greater
than the tolerance, the iterative solver continues until it reaches the maximum number of iterations.
BC Locations Page:
Summary of BC Locations: A list of all boundary condition locations used in this analysis. Boundary condition
locations are region surfaces, lines, or points that have a boundary condition object attached to them. The table lists
the boundary condition location names, as well as the corresponding boundary condition type, name, and location
type.
Matl Locations Page:

Summary of Material Locations: A list of all materials and the regions to which they are attached for this
analysis.
Mesh Data Page:

This property page contains a summary of the following finite element mesh data used in this analysis:
Number of Elements: The total number of elements contained in all regions of the domain.
Number of Nodes: The total number of nodes contained in all regions of the domain.
Number of Time Steps: The number of time steps used by this analysis.
Number of Regions: The number of regions in the domain.
Number of Materials: The number of materials used by this analysis.

62 Seep3D
Analysis Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click the analysis object:
Set as Current Analysis: Sets the selected analysis to be the Current Analysis. The Current Analysis provides
the context for all other Seep3D commands and properties. For example, the results shown in the Results View are
those computed for the Current Analysis; the
New Analysis: Creates a new analysis and makes it the current analysis.
Delete: Deletes the selected analysis.
Rename: Renames the selected analysis.
Solve: Computes the finite element solution after the problem has been defined. The Solver window displays a
dialog box that contains the analysis name, the status of the solving process and the number of solved time steps.
You can automatically hide the solver window after the solve process is complete by selecting the checkbox in the
window. You can also click the Details button to expand or collapse the solver window list box.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected analysis.
Boundary Conditions
A Boundary Condition (BC) object defines a boundary condition that can be applied to many different locations on
the domain (such as faces, lines, or points). When the analysis is solved, each boundary condition is applied to the
mesh nodes underlying each domain location. Because the BC object is defined separately from its locations, you
can change the action of all applied boundary conditions by simply changing the action of the BC object. When the
analysis is solved, the new BC action will be applied to the corresponding locations.
Boundary Conditions Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a Boundary Condition, open the Boundary Conditions folder in the Tree View, right-
click on the Boundary Condition name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Boundary
Condition property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the boundary condition. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the boundary condition.
Detail Page:
Properties:
Type: The type of the boundary condition. Available types are Total Head, Pressure Head, Flux, and Potential
Seepage.
Applied to: The type of domain location that the BC can be applied to. This option only becomes available if a
Flux or Potential Seepage Face is chosen, since the action (i.e., constant or function) represents the flux (L3/T)
applied at a point per unit length or per unit area. The following describes the flux units used when applied to
different location types:
A. Point Location: Applied action is the specified flux action at the point (L3/T)
B. Line Location: Applied action is the specified flux action per unit length (L3/T/L i.e., L2/T)
Surface Location: Applied action is the specified flux action per unit area (L3/T/L2 i.e., L/T)
Color: The color used in the Boundary Condition View to display the boundary condition at each applied location.
63 GeoStudio
Action (at time=0): The numerical value of the applied boundary condition action at Time 0 (i.e., for a steady-
state analysis). Different actions can be applied at different time steps. To modify the action at Time 0 or to add
additional action values at different times, click the Edit Action button. If you do not define any additional actions
at different times, the action at Time 0 will be used at all time steps.
Edit Action: Displays a dialog box that allows you to edit the applied BC action.
Edit Action Dialog Box:

When you select the Edit Action command on the Detail page, a dialog box appears to let you edit the applied BC
action. The properties in this dialog box are as follows:
Action (at Time=0): The numerical value of the applied boundary condition action at Time 0 (i.e., for a steady-
state analysis). To apply different actions at different time steps, click on the Function >> button. The dialog box
will be expanded to display Function properties. A single point at the T=0 position is shown on the function graph
and displayed in the Point Table. If you do not define any additional points, the action at Time 0 will be used for all
time steps.
Point Table: A list of points in the function. To enter additional points, type the X and Y values in the table. Use
the TAB key to move forward in the table and the Shift-TAB key to move backward. After you enter a point in the
table, it is shown in the function graph.
Function Graph: A graphical plot of the function. A weighted spline function is generated to pass between all
data points. You can use the Fit to Data and Segment Shape controls to adjust the spline.
Fit to Data: Fits the curve to the data points. When the curve is fit exactly (100%) to the data points, the spline
passes through each data point. As the curve fitting is reduced, the overall spline shape approaches a straight line
that passes close to each data point. This is useful when you want to approximate a spline through laboratory-
measured data points without moving any of the data points.
Segment Shape: Changes the shape of the spline curve between data points. When the curve segments are
curved (100%) between data points, the curve is defined as a natural spline. As the curve segments are made
straighter, the curve segments approach a straight line between data points. Straightening the curve segments helps
to prevent “spline overshoot” (extreme peaks or valleys in the spline). It also allows you to define “step” functions
that have straight line segments between each data point.
New Pt: Displays a dialog box for entering a new point's x and y coordinates. The new point is then added to the
function graph and table.
Print: Displays a dialog box for printing the function.
Copy: Displays a short-cut menu for copying either the function table or the graph to the Windows clipboard. You
can then paste the function from the Windows clipboard into another Windows application, such as Microsoft Word
or Excel.
Locations Page:
Locations for the Current Analysis: A list of all the locations that this boundary condition is used in the current
analysis. Boundary condition locations are region surfaces, lines, or points that have a boundary condition object
attached to them. The table lists the boundary condition location names, as well as the current boundary condition
type, name, and location type.
Boundary Condition Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click on a boundary conditions object:
New Boundary Condition: Creates a new boundary condition.
Delete: Deletes the selected boundary condition if it is not applied to any locations in the domain. You can also
delete the BC by selecting it and pressing the Delete key. If the BC is applied to domain location for a given
64 Seep3D
analysis, you will need to either select the given analysis as the current analysis and remove the association from the
corresponding domain object property sheet, or you will need to delete the corresponding region.
Rename: Renames the selected boundary condition.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected boundary condition.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected Boundary Condition.
Materials
A Material object defines a material that can be applied to different solid regions on the domain. When the analysis
is solved, each material is applied to the finite elements within each solid region. Because the material object is
defined separately from its attached regions, you can change the material properties of all attached solid regions by
simply changing the properties of the Material object. When the analysis is solved, the new material properties will
be applied to the corresponding finite elements within the attached regions.
Material Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a Material, open the Materials folder in the Tree View, right-click the Material name,
and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Material property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the material. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the material.
Conductivity Page:
The Conductivity page defines the relationship between pore-water pressure and hydraulic conductivity. Typically, a
soil desaturates and the water content decreases when the pore-water pressure becomes negative; the ability of the
soil to conduct water decreases as the water content decreases. The soil hydraulic conductivity consequently
decreases as the pore-water pressure becomes increasingly negative.
X-Conductivity Properties:
X-Conductivity (Kx) at Pressure=0: The x-conductivity value when pressure is 0 (i.e., saturated conductivity,
Ksat). Different conductivity values can be specified at different pressures. To modify the x-conductivity at zero
pressure or to add additional x-conductivity values at different pressures, click the Edit Conductivity button. If you
do not specify a full conductivity function, then the x-conductivity value at zero pressure is used at all pressure
values.
Edit Conductivity: Displays a dialog box that allows you to edit the conductivity specified at various pressures.
Edit Conductivity Dialog Box:

When you select the Edit Conductivity command on the Conductivity page, a dialog box appears. The properties in
this dialog box are as follows:
Kx (at pressure=0): The numerical value of the x-conductivity at a pressure value of 0. To change this value,
simply enter a new value in the edit box. To specify different x-conductivity values at different pressures, click on
the Function >> button. The dialog box will be expanded to display Function properties. A single point at the P=0
position is shown on the function graph and displayed in the Point Table.
65 GeoStudio
or Excel.
Other Conductivity Properties:

Ky/Kx: The ratio of the hydraulic conductivity in the y-coordinate direction to the hydraulic conductivity in the x-
coordinate direction. This ratio is used to derive y-conductivity from the Kx value taken from the conductivity
function. For example, a ratio of 5 means the hydraulic conductivity in the y-direction is 5 times greater than in the
x-direction. A ratio of 1.0 (the default value) means the hydraulic conductivity is the same in the x- and y-directions.
A value of 0.1 means the y hydraulic conductivity is 10 times less than the x hydraulic conductivity. The hydraulic
conductivity function always defines Kx.
Kz/Kx: The ratio of the hydraulic conductivity in the z-coordinate direction to the hydraulic conductivity in the x-
coordinate direction. This ratio is used to derive z-conductivity from the Kx value taken from the conductivity
function. For example, a ratio of 5 means the hydraulic conductivity in the z-direction is 5 times greater than in the
x-direction. A ratio of 1.0 (the default value) means the hydraulic conductivity is the same in the x- and z-directions.
A value of 0.1 means the z hydraulic conductivity is 10 times less than the x hydraulic conductivity. The hydraulic
conductivity function always defines Kx.
Theta-xy: The Kx direction angle with respect to the vertical plane (i.e., the x-y plane). The direction angle must
be expressed in degrees. If Theta-xy is 30 degrees, it means that Kx is at an angle 30 degrees with respect to the
vertical plane in the counter-clockwise direction. If Theta-xy is -30 degrees, it means that Kx is at an angle 30
degrees with respect to the vertical plane in the clockwise direction.
Theta-xz: The Kx direction angle with respect to the horizontal plane (i.e., the x-z plane). The direction angle
must be expressed in degrees. If Theta-xz is 30 degrees, it means that Kx is at an angle 30 degrees with respect to
the horizontal plane in the counter-clockwise direction. If Theta-xz is -30 degrees, it means that Kx is at an angle 30
degrees with respect to the horizontal plane in the clockwise direction.
Water Content Page:

The Water Content Page defines the relationship between pore-water pressure and the volume of water stored in the
soil pores. A volumetric water content function describes the volume of water that a material can store as a function
of the pore-water pressure. Typically, as the pore-water pressure moves from a positive to a negative state, the soil
begins to desaturate, and water content decreases. The water content must be specified as the volumetric water
content, which is defined as the porosity multiplied by the degree of saturation. In equation form:
where theta = volumetric water content, n = porosity, and S = degree of saturation.

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Porosity is related to the void ratio (e) by the equation:
The void ratio is related to the gravimetric water content by the equation:
where w = gravimetric water content, Gs = particle specific gravity, and S = degree of saturation.
Volumetric Water Content Properties:

Vol. Water Content ( at Pressure=0): The volumetric water content value when pressure is 0. This is the same
as the porosity of the material. Different volumetric water content values can be specified at different pressures. To
modify the volumetric water content at zero pressure or to add additional values at different pressures, click the Edit
Water Content button. If you do not specify a full function, then the volumetric water content value at zero pressure
is extended using Mv for all other pressure values.
Coef. of Volume Compressibility (Mv): The slope of the water content function beyond the right-most points
of the defined function. For example, if the specified function range is from pressure values -100 kPa to 0 kPa, the
volumetric water content at -200 kPa will be computed based on the spline function slope at -100 kPa, but the
volumetric water content at 100 kPa will be computed based on Mv.
Edit Water Content: Displays a dialog box that allows you to edit the volumetric water content function at
various pressures.
Edit Water Content Dialog Box:

When you select the Edit Water Content command on the Vol. Water Content page, a dialog box appears. The
properties in this dialog box are as follows:
Vol. Water Content (at pressure=0): The volumetric water content value when pressure is 0. Different water
content values can be specified at different pressures. To change this value, simply enter a new value in the edit
box. To add additional values at different pressures, click the Function>> button. The dialog box will be expanded
to display Function properties. A single point at the P=0 position is shown on the function graph and displayed in
the Point Table. If you do not specify a full function, then the volumetric water content value at zero pressure is
extended using Mv for all other pressure values.
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or Excel.
Visual Page:
Color: The color used in the Region View to display regions that use this material.
Location Page:
Material locations for the Current Analysis: A list of all the solid regions that use this material in the current
analysis.
Material Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a material object:
New Material: Creates a new material.
Delete: Deletes the selected material if it is not applied to any solid regions in the domain. You can also delete the
material by selecting it and pressing the Delete key. If the material is applied to a solid region for a given analysis,
you will need to either select the given analysis as the current analysis and remove the association from the
corresponding region property sheet, or you will need to delete the corresponding region.
Rename: Renames the selected material.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected material.
Domain
The Domain object is the model of your 3D geometry. A domain consists of a collection of connected regions. Each
region has an inherent finite element mesh pattern. Therefore, the finite element mesh is automatically built as you
connect regions together, which ensures mesh compatibility between regions. Each region is also composed of other
geometric entities: faces, lines, and points.
When you expand the Domain folder in the Tree View, you can see sub-folders for the following geometric entities
that make up a domain:
Solid Regions: List of all solid regions in the domain.
Surfaces: List of all surfaces used by solid regions in the domain.
Lines: List of all lines used by surfaces in the domain.
Points: List of all points used by lines in the domain.
Free Points: List of all defined points that are not connected to other geometric entities in the domain. For
example, free points are useful for applying a boundary condition at a specific point anywhere in the domain.
Domain Property Sheet

To modify the Domain properties, right-click on Domain in the Tree View and select Properties. The following
pages are available on the Domain property sheet:
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Name Page:
Name: A name for the domain.
Description: A text description of the domain.
Mesh Divisions Page:

Properties:
List of mesh divisions: A table listing both the specified target number and the actual number of mesh divisions
applied on each line in the domain. The target mesh divisions are set by default when each region is created. The
actual mesh divisions are computed by the Seep3D mesh generator such that an optimally small yet compatible
mesh is created across all regions. You can change the target number of mesh divisions by clicking in the cell and
entering a new target value. The next time you generate the mesh (by choosing the Mesh View or by solving the
analysis), the new target mesh divisions will be used to generate a new finite element mesh within the domain.
Set Global Divisions: Displays a dialog box to set the mesh division numbers across all lines in the domain.
Set Global Divisions Dialog Box:

When you select the Set Global Divisions command on the Mesh Divisions page, a dialog box appears to let you
generate mesh division numbers across all lines in the domain. The properties in this dialog box are as follows:
Maximum mesh element size: The maximum size (in units of length) that an element edge can be. Using this
option sets different values for each mesh division number on the domain lines, so that no generated finite element
has an edge longer than the specified length. All previous mesh division values will be over-written.
Divisions per region line: The number of mesh divisions to set on each line in the domain. All previous mesh
division values will be over-written.
Domain Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click on the domain object:
Rename: Renames the domain.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected Domain Object.
Solid Regions
A Solid Region object is a 3-dimensional region composed of surfaces, lines, and points. Each solid region has an
inherent finite element mesh pattern, which ensures mesh compatibility between solid regions. The mesh pattern is
defined by the mesh subdivisions specified on the edges of the solid.
Solid regions are the fundamental building blocks for a 3D analysis. Each new solid region is connected to an
existing solid region to form a 3D domain. Each solid region also contains a specified Material which details the
applied material properties. Boundary conditions can be applied to various faces, lines, and points within the
domain.
Creating Solid Regions

You can create a new solid region two different ways:
1. Drag a region from the Catalog View into the 3D View. As you move your mouse over the domain, underlying
surfaces and edges are highlighted and an outline of the new region is displayed. Once you have decided where
to create the region, lift up the mouse button and drop the region onto the selected face(s). If a domain has not
been defined yet, then a new region is created in the middle of the 3D View.
2. Select the target surface(s) to connect to in the 3D View. Hold the CTRL key when clicking to select multiple
surfaces. Then, right-click the selected surface(s) and choose New Hex Region, New Prism Region, or New Tet
Region.
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When defining a new region that connects to more than one region, you must attach the new region to all
surfaces that you wish to connect to.
Region Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a region, double-click the region in the 3D View to select it, right-click the region, and
select Properties. Alternatively, you can open the Solid Regions folder in the Tree View, right-click the region name,
and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Region property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the solid region. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the region.
Material Page:
Material: The material to attach to this region. The material contains the material properties that will be applied to
the region.
Detail Page:
Display this region: Option to display the region in the 3D View. It is useful to uncheck this option when you
wish to view regions or faces on the inside of a domain.
Integration order: The number of gauss points to define within each hexahedral element in the region. For more
information on element integration order, see Numerical Integration.
Solid Region Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a solid region object:
Delete: Deletes the selected solid region. You can also delete the region by selecting it and pressing the Delete
key.
Rename: Renames the selected region.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected region.
Surfaces
Surfaces are faces of Solid Regions. Each new solid region is created by connecting it to another solid region's
surface. A surface can have a Boundary Condition attached to it.
A surface can be moved by selecting it and dragging its manipulator handles. See Related Topics for more
information on manipulating regions.
Surface Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a surface, click on the surface in the 3D View to select it, right-click the surface, and
select Properties. Alternatively, you can use the Tree View to show the list of surfaces contained in any solid region
or contained in the entire Domain. Expand any Solid Region or the Surfaces folder, right-click the surface name, and
select Properties. The following pages are available on the Surface property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the surface. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the surface.
BCs Page:
Boundary Condition: The boundary condition to attach to this surface. The boundary condition contains the
boundary condition type and action that will be applied to all mesh nodes that lie on this surface. By default, the
70 Seep3D
boundary condition is applied to the entire surface and to all lines and points attached to the surface. However, you
can modify the location so that the boundary condition is only applied to a portion of the surface. See Related Topics
for more information on manipulating boundary condition locations.
Detail Page:
Display this region: Option to display the region in the 3D View. It is useful to uncheck this option when you
wish to view regions or faces on the inside of a domain.
Integration order: The number of gauss points to define within each hexahedral element in the region. See
Related Topics for more information on element integration order and numerical integration.
Surface Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a surface object in the Tree View:
Rename: Renames the selected surface.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected surface.
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a surface object in the 3D View:
View Perpendicular to Face: Rotates the 3D View so that the view angle is exactly perpendicular to the surface,
providing a frontal view of the surface. you can use this command in several different 3D View windows to create
Front, Side, and Top views of your domain.
New Hex Region: Creates a new hex region attached to the selected quadrilateral surface. You can select
multiple surfaces using the CTRL key and then choose New Hex Region to attach a region to several other regions.
New Prism Region: Creates a new prism region attached to the selected quadrilateral or tetrahedral surface. You
can select multiple surfaces using the CTRL key and then choose New Prism Region to attach a region to several
other regions.
New Tet Region: Creates a new tetrahedral region attached to the selected triangular surface. You can select
multiple surfaces using the CTRL key and then choose New Tet Region to attach a region to several other regions.
Lines
Lines are edges of surfaces and are created as part of a solid region. A line can have a Boundary Condition attached
to it.
A line can be moved by selecting one of the surfaces attached to it and dragging its manipulator handles. For more
information, see manipulating regions in the Related Topics.
Line Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a line, click on the line in the 3D View to select it, right-click the line, and select
Properties. Alternatively, you can use the Tree View to show the list of lines contained in any surface or contained
in the entire Domain. Expand any Surface object or the Lines folder, right-click the line name, and select
Properties. The following pages are available on the Line property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the line. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the line.

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Mesh Page:
Mesh Divisions per Line
Target number of divisions: The number of mesh divisions that you would like in the portion of the finite
element mesh that lies along the line. The target mesh divisions are set by default when each region is created.
Changing the target number of divisions can result in a finer or coarser finite element mesh. A new finite element
mesh is generated as necessary when you choose the Mesh View or solve the analysis.
Actual number of divisions: The actual number of mesh divisions that exist in the finite element mesh portion
that lies along the line. The actual mesh divisions are computed by the Seep3D mesh generator such that an
optimally small yet compatible mesh is created across all regions. Therefore, the actual number of divisions may be
greater than the target number, since a larger number of divisions is required to create a compatible mesh. This
property is blank if a mesh has not yet been generated.
The list of mesh divisions along all lines is displayed in the Domain property sheet. You can also use the Set Global
Divisions command on the Domain property sheet to generate new mesh division values across all lines in the
domain.
BCs Page:
Boundary Condition: The boundary condition to attach to this line. The boundary condition contains the
boundary condition type and action that will be applied to all mesh nodes that lie on this line.
Line Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a line object:
Rename: Renames the selected line.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected line.
Points
Points are connected to lines and are created as part of a solid region. A point can have a Boundary Condition
attached to it.
A point can be moved if it is connected only to a tetrahedral solid region. For more information, see Manipulating
Regions.
You can also create points that are not attached to any lines in the domain. These points are called Free Points, and
are primarily used to specify boundary conditions at specific positions within the domain.
Point Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a point, click on the point in the 3D View to select it, right-click the point, and select
Properties. Alternatively, you can use the Tree View to show the list of points contained in any line or contained in
the entire Domain. Expand any Line object or the Points folder, right-click the point name, and select
Properties. The following pages are available on the Point property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the point. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the point.
BCs Page:
Boundary Condition: The boundary condition to attach to this point. The boundary condition contains the
boundary condition type and action that will be applied to the mesh node that lies on this point.
Detail Page:
Point Coordinates: The x, y, and z coordinates of the point.
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Point Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a Point object:
Rename: Renames the selected point.
command.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected point.
Free Points
Unlike the points at region vertices, Free Points are points that are not attached to any lines in the domain. Free
points are primarily used to specify boundary conditions at specific positions within the domain. When you solve an
analysis, the boundary condition at each free point is applied to the nearest node in the generated finite element
mesh.
A free point is created by right-clicking on the Free Points folder in the Tree View and selecting the New Free Point
command. A free point can be moved by changing its geometry on its property sheet. It can also be moved
interactively by selecting the free point in the Tree View, switching to the 3D Results View, and dragging its
manipulator handles. Every free point has 3 manipulator knobs. Dragging one of the manipulators moves the result
point in either the x, y, or z direction. The manipulator knobs are subject to snap settings. If snapping is enabled and
you are dragging the x-direction manipulator knob, then the free point will snap to the nearest x-snap increment
when the mouse is released. Snapping in the y- and z-directions is ignored during an x-translation. Similar logic
holds true for dragging a free point in the y-direction (snapping only in the y-direction) or z-direction (snapping only
in the z-direction).
Free Point Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a point, click on the point in the 3D View to select it, right-click the point, and select
Properties. Alternatively, you can use the Tree View to show the list of points contained in any line or contained in
the entire Domain. Expand any Line object or the Points folder, right-click on the point name, and select
Properties. The following pages are available on the Point property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the free point. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the free point.
BCs Page:
Boundary Condition: The boundary condition to attach to this free point. The boundary condition contains the
boundary condition type and action that will be applied to the mesh node that lies closes to the free point.
Detail Page:
Specified coordinates: The specified x, y, and z coordinates of the free point. To change the coordinates, enter a
new value in the X, Y, or Z edit box.
Applied (nodal) coordinates: The x, y, and z coordinates of the mesh node that is closest to the free point. Any
boundary condition applied to the free point will be applied to this mesh node. The nodal coordinates are blank if a
mesh has not yet been generated.
Free Point Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a free point object:
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New Free Point: Creates a new free point.
Rename: Renames the selected free point.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected free point.
Result Set
Once the model has been created and solved, results are available for viewing or for exporting as raw
data. GeoStudio uses the concept of a Result Set for accessing analysis results. A Result Set can be thought of as a
database query that can be replayed on the analysis of your choice (the current analysis).
Result Sets are useful for storing a particular "collection" of result visualization objects. You may wish to create
multiple Result Sets and then use the Results toolbar to switch the view between the various Result Sets. For
example, you could create one Result Set that contains a zero-pressure isosurface and a contoured Result Plane that
intersects the isosurface. In a separate Result Set, you could create a Hull Contour that displays head contours.
Switching between the two Result Sets in the toolbar allows you to move quickly between two different
visualizations. Both Results Sets are also stored when you save your project. This allows you to open the project
later, change the definition, and immediately view the new results in your Result Sets.
The visualization objects used by Result Sets are Result Points, Result Lines, Result Planes, Isosurfaces, and Hull
Contours. Numerical results can be viewed within each result object in a variety of ways. For example, you can view
2D contours on a Result Plane, an X-Y plot of values along a Result Line, and a flow path passing through a Result
Point.
Individual Result Sets are stored under the Result Sets heading in the Tree View. A default Result Set containing a
number of result objects is created for you when you solve an analysis. You can modify the properties of these result
objects and delete the ones you do not need. You can also create additional result objects by right-clicking on the
Result Set name and choosing the appropriate command, such as New Result Line.
Result Set Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a Result Set, open the Result Sets folder in the Tree View, right-click the Result Set
name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Result Set property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the result set. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of your result set.
Contours Page:
The contour properties are used for all Result Plane and Hull Contour objects in the Result Set that have contouring
enabled. You can use different Result Sets if you wish to maintain several different contour parameter, range, or
color properties. Contours on Result Planes are created by calculating the parameter value at each grid point on the
plane. Contours on the domain hull are created by determining the parameter value at each mesh node on the domain
hull.
Parameter Properties:
Parameter: The parameter to contour. When you select a new parameter, the Min and Max properties are updated
and new Range properties values are set to contour the entire range. If the analysis has not been solved yet, then the
Min, Max, and Range properties are empty.
Min: The minimum value of the parameter to contour.
Max: The maximum value of the parameter to contour.

74 Seep3D
Range Properties:
Starting Value: The starting (or minimum) contour level.
Increment by: The increment for each contour level. This property must be greater than zero.
# of Contours: The number of contouring levels.
Ending Value: The ending (or maximum) contour level. This property cannot be changed; its value is computed
from the other 3 properties.
Shading Properties:
Method: Determines the series of colors used for contour shading (i.e., the contour shading color spectrum). Each
contour shading method represents a different way to traverse the color wheel from a starting color to an ending
color. The color wheel is a circular representation of visible colors where pure red, yellow, green, cyan, blue and
magenta are located on the outside of the wheel in a counter clockwise direction, and gray is in the middle of the
wheel. A starting color and an ending color represent positions on the color wheel. Given these starting and ending
positions, there are five different methods by which to traverse from the starting color to the ending color on the
color wheel:
• Wide Rainbow: The traverse path follows the longest path around the color wheel from the starting color to the
ending color.
• Narrow Rainbow: The traverse path follows the shortest path around the color wheel from the starting color to
the ending color.
• Fade: The traverse path follows a direct straight line path across the color wheel from the starting color to the
ending color.
• Full Rainbow: The traverse path follows a clockwise path around the color wheel from the starting color back to
the starting color.
• Full Rainbow (Reverse): The traverse path follows a counter clockwise path around the color wheel from the
starting color back to the starting color.
Colors per interval: The number of colors to display between each contour level. Increasing the number of colors
per interval will smooth the color gradation from one color to the next.
Start: The starting color. Click on the arrow to select a new color.
End: The ending color. Click on the arrow to select a new color.
Vectors Page:
Vector data is available for viewing as directed arrows in the 3D view. The Vectors page allows you to specify the
vector settings in the Result Set for all Result Point, Result Line, and Result Plane objects with vectors enabled. You
can use different Result Sets if you wish to maintain settings for several different vector parameters, ranges, or
colors. Vectors on Result Planes and Lines are created by calculating the parameter value at each grid point. Vectors
at result points are created by determining the parameter value at each result point.
Parameter Properties:
Parameter: The parameter for which to display vectors. When you select a new parameter, the Min and Max
properties are updated show the entire range. If the analysis has not been solved yet, then the Minimum and
Maximum properties are empty.
Min: The minimum magnitude of the vector parameter.
Max: The maximum magnitude of the vector parameter.

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Color: The color of the vector arrows. Click the arrow to select a new color.
Scale Properties:
Max. Vector Length: The arrow length used for the maximum vector magnitude. This length is specified as a
percentage of the overall domain size.
Use constant length for all vectors: When this option is checked, all vector arrows will be drawn with a length
equivalent to the maximum vector length.
Flow Lines Page:

A flow line traces the path a single particle would follow if it was released into the model and allowed to flow with
the groundwater. The point at which the particle is released is commonly referred to as a seed point. Flow lines are
calculated for both the upstream and downstream directions from the seed point. A Result Point can be used as a
single seed point. A Result Line (which is subdivided into evenly spaced segments) can be used to set multiple seed
points. Similarly a Result Plane can contain seed points on regular grid.
Flow lines can be displayed by enabling them on the property sheet for any Result Point, Result Line, or Result
Plane.
Properties:
Color: The color of the flow lines. Click the arrow to select a new color.
Result Set Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a result set object:
Set as Current Result Set: Sets the selected result set to be the Current Result Set. The Current Result Set
provides visualization settings for the 3D Results View. When you perform a new analysis, the Current Result Set is
used to display the results.
New Result Set: Creates a new result set containing a default set of visualization objects.
New Result Plane: Creates a new Result Plane at a default location.
New Result Line: Creates a new Result Line at a default location.
New Result Point: Creates a new Result Point at a default location.
New Isosurface: Creates a new Isosurface of a default parameter and value.
New Hull Contours: Creates Hull Contours of the parameter to contour for the result set. Only one Hull Contour
object is relevant per result set.
Current Time Steps: Displays selected Time Steps in a transient analysis. If one time step is selected, then all
possible results at that time step can be viewed. These include viewing and graphing of data values, iso-surfaces,
surface contours, flux quantities and flowpaths. If more than one increment is selected, the viewing and graphing of
the data values as well as the iso-surfaces at all selected time steps are available, but only the results of the latest
time step is available for surface contours, flux quantities and flowpaths.
Delete: Deletes the selected result set.
Rename: Renames the selected result set.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected result set.
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Result Point
A Result Point is used to examine the data at specified coordinates anywhere within the domain. When a result point
is selected in the Tree View, the point can be interactively moved in the Results View by dragging the appropriate
(x, y, or z) controller knob attached to the point.
A result point is used to examine the analysis results at specified coordinates anywhere within the domain. The
results for any parameter can then be shown at the result point.
A result point can be created by right-clicking the Result Set and selecting the New Result point command. A result
point can be moved by changing its geometry on its property sheet. It can also be moved interactively by selecting
the result point in the Tree View, switching to the 3D Results View, and dragging its manipulator handles. Every
result point has 3 manipulator knobs. Dragging one of the manipulators moves the result point in either the x, y, or z
direction. The manipulator knobs are subject to snap settings. If snapping is enabled and you are dragging the x-
direction manipulator knob, then the result point will snap to the nearest x-snap increment when the mouse is
released. Snapping in the y- and z-directions is ignored during an x-translation. Similar logic holds true for dragging
a point in the y-direction (snapping only in the y-direction) or z-direction (snapping only in the z-direction).
Result Point Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a Result Point, open the appropriate Result Set folder in the Tree View, right-click the
Result Point name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Result Point property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the result point. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the result point.
Geometry Page:
General Properties:
Connect to surface: Select this option to attach the result point to a region point or a free point. You can then
select the name of the point in the list next to the option. When you connect a result point to a region point or free
point, the results are displayed for the mesh node that exists at the point.
Specify: Select this option to specify the exact coordinates of the result point. This is the option used for default
result points.
Coordinates: The X, Y, and Z coordinates of the result point.
Detail Page:
Display Vectors: Check this option to display a vector at the result point. The vector parameter and size are
specified on the Result Set property sheet.
Display Flow Lines: Check this option to display a flow line passing through the result point. A flow line traces
the path a single particle would follow if it was released into the model and allowed to flow with the groundwater.
The flow line color is specified on the Result Set property sheet. The result point is used as a seed point for a new
flow line.
Data Page:
The Data Page allows you to view the numerical results calculated at the result point. You can copy the results to the
Clipboard or graph them on an XY plot.
Data Properties:
Parameter: The parameter for which to show data. When you select a new parameter, the Data Table is updated
with the results at the result point. If the analysis has not been solved yet, then the Data Table is empty.
Data Table: The XYZ coordinates and parameter values at the result point.
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Copy: Copies the data table to the Windows clipboard. This allows you to paste the results into another Windows
application, such as Microsoft Word or Excel.
Expand: Displays a dialog box containing a larger Data Table.
Graph: Displays a new window containing an XY plot of the data. Only one data point will appear on the plot by
default. Selecting Time as the independent variable for a transient analysis will show a plot of the selected variable
at each time increment. To plot a parameter at various positions in the domain, select the Data property page for a
Result Line or Result Plane and select the Graph button.
Graph Properties:
The Graph window contains an XY plot of the results data at each point on the result point. You can resize the
Graph window by dragging one of the window corners or edges.
Dependent Variable: The dependent variable on the XY plot can be any parameter at which results exist. Click
the arrow on the first combo box to select a parameter to plot.
Independent Variable: The independent variable on the XY plot. For a result point, it is most useful to select
Time as the independent variable for the plot.
Display independent variable on: This option allows you to display the independent variable along either the
X or Y axis of the plot. By default, the independent variable is plotted along the X axis.
Copy: Copies the graph to the Windows clipboard. This allows you to paste the graph into another Windows
application, such as Microsoft Word or Excel. If you wish to paste the numerical values into another application,
close the Graph window and select the Copy button on the Data property page.
Print: Prints the graph on a Windows printer.
Close: Closes the Graph window.
Result Point Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a result point object:
Delete: Deletes the selected result point.
Rename: Renames the selected result point.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected result point.
Result Line
A Result Line is used to examine the analysis results along a line that intersects the domain. The results for any
parameter can be extracted along regularly spaced points on the line.
A result line can be created by right-clicking the Result Set and selecting the New Result Line command. A result
line can be moved by changing its geometry on its property sheet. It can also be moved interactively by selecting the
result line in the Tree View, switching to the 3D Results View, and dragging its manipulator handles. Every result
line has 3 manipulator knobs at each end of the line. Dragging one of the manipulators moves the end of the result
line in either the x, y, or z direction. The manipulator knobs are subject to snap settings. If snapping is enabled and
you are dragging the x-direction manipulator knob, then the end point of the result line will snap to the nearest x-
snap increment when the mouse is released. Snapping in the y- and z-directions is ignored during an x-translation.
Similar logic holds true for dragging a point in the y-direction (snapping only in the y-direction) or z-direction
(snapping only in the z-direction).
78 Seep3D
Result Line Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a Result Line, open the appropriate Result Set folder in the Tree View, right-click the
Result Line name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Result Line property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the result line. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the result line.
Geometry Page:
General Properties:
Connect to surface: Select this option to attach the result line to a line on one of the existing solid regions. You
can then select the name of the line in the list next to the option. When you connect a result line to a region line, you
do not need to specify a grid along the result line (or any other geometric properties), since the results are displayed
at the actual mesh nodes on the line.
Specify: Select this option to specify the exact coordinates of the result line. This is the option used for default
result lines.
Start Point: The X, Y, and Z coordinates of the first result line endpoint.
End Point: The X, Y, and Z coordinates of the second result line end point.
Grid Spacing: The number of grid points along the result line. Since results are calculated at each grid point,
increasing the grid spacing increases the number of flow lines, vectors, and data points generated along the result
line.
Detail Page:
Display Vectors: Check this option to display a vector at each grid point (or mesh node) on the result line. The
vector parameter and size are specified on the Result Set property sheet.
Display Flow Lines: Check this option to display flow lines on the result line. A flow line traces the path a single
particle would follow if it was released into the model and allowed to flow with the groundwater. The flow line
color is specified on the Result Set property sheet. Each grid point (or mesh node) on the result line is used as a seed
point for a new flow line. Because each flow line can take a long time to generate, you should typically enable flow
lines only if the number of grid points on the result line is small.
Data Page:
The Data Page allows you to view the numerical results calculated at each grid point (or mesh node) on the result
line. You can copy the results to the Clipboard or graph them on an XY plot.
Data Properties:
with the results at each grid point (or mesh node) in the result line. If the analysis has not been solved yet, then the
Data Table is empty.
Data Table: The XYZ coordinates and parameter values at each grid point (or mesh node).
Expand: Displays a dialog box containing a larger Data Table. This is useful for displaying the results at many
points on the result line. The dialog box also allows you to select another parameter, copy the data to the Clipboard,
or graph the data.
Graph: Displays a new window containing an XY plot of the data.

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Graph Properties:
The Graph window contains an XY plot of the results data at each point on the result line. You can resize the Graph
window by dragging one of the window corners or edges.
Independent Variable: The independent variable on the XY plot can be the X, Y, or Z coordinates of the point
on the result line, the distance between each point, or time (for a transient analysis). Click the arrow on the "vs"
combo box to select to select an independent variable for the plot.
X or Y axis of the plot. By default, the independent variable is plotted along the X axis. When the independent
variable is the Y coordinate, it may be more useful to display the Y coordinate along the Y axis of the plot.
Result Line Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a result line object:
Delete: Deletes the selected result line.
Rename: Renames the selected result line.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected result line.
Result Plane
A Result Plane is used to examine the analysis results along a plane that intersects the domain. The results for any
parameter can be extracted along a regularly spaced grid of points on the plane.
A result plane can be created by right-clicking the Result Set and selecting the New Result Plane command. A result
plane can be moved by changing its geometry on its property sheet. It can also be moved interactively by selecting
the result plane in the Tree View, switching to the 3D Results View, and dragging its manipulator handles. Every
result plane has 10 manipulator knobs associated with it. The red manipulator knobs on the edges extend the Result
Plane in a direction perpendicular to the edge. The red manipulator knob in the center of the Result Plane is used to
translate the plane in a direction normal to the plane. The light blue manipulator knobs on the edges are used to
swing (rotate) the Result Plane using the opposite edge as a hinge. The light blue manipulator knob in the center of
the plane is used to pivot the plane about its center. This pivoting keeps the top and bottom edges horizontal.
Result Plane Property Sheet

To modify the properties of a Result Plane, open the appropriate Result Set folder in the Tree View, right-click the
Result Plane name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Result Plane property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the result plane. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the result plane.

80 Seep3D
Geometry Page:
General Properties:
Connect to surface: Select this option to attach the plane to a surface on one of the existing solid regions. You
can then select the name of the surface in the list next to the option. When you connect a result plane to a surface,
you do not need to specify a grid on the result plane (or any other geometric properties), since the results are
displayed at the actual mesh nodes on the surface.
Specify: Select this option to specify the exact coordinates of the result plane. This is the option used for default
result planes.
1st Base Pt: The X, Y, and Z coordinates of the first point that defines the result plane.
2nd Base Pt: The X, Y, and Z coordinates of the second point that defines the result plane. The two base points
define a line that the plane passes through.
Reference Pt: The X, Y, and Z coordinates of the first point that defines the result plane. The reference point
completes the definition of the plane.
Grid Spacing X and Y: The number of grid points on the result plane in the X and Y directions. The total number
of grid points on the plane equals the X spacing multiplied by the Y spacing. Since results are calculated at each grid
point, increasing the grid spacing increases the number of flow lines, vectors, and data points used to contour results
on the plane.
Detail Page:
Display Contours: Check this option to display contours on the result plane. The parameter and interval used to
generate the contours are specified on the Result Set property sheet. The quality of the contours is generally
dependent on the grid spacing specified on the Geometry page. The higher the grid spacing, the more data points
used to generate the contour levels.
Opacity: The opacity of the contours on the result plane. An opacity of 0% makes the contours invisible, while an
opacity of 100% means that all objects behind the result plane cannot be seen. Setting the opacity at 50% makes the
contours semi-transparent, allowing you to see both the contours and the objects behind the result plane at the same
time.
Display Vectors: Check this option to display vectors on the result plane. The vector parameter and size are
specified on the Result Set property sheet. A vector is shown at each grid point (or mesh node) on the result plane.
Display Flow Lines: Check this option to display flow lines on the result plane. A flow line traces the path a
single particle would follow if it was released into the model and allowed to flow with the groundwater. The flow
line color is specified on the Result Set property sheet. Each grid point (or mesh node) on the result plane is used as
a seed point for a new flow line. Because each flow line can take a long time to generate, you should typically
enable flow lines only if the number of grid points on the result plane is small.
Data Page:
The Data Page allows you to view the numerical results calculated at each grid point (or mesh node) on the result
plane. You can copy the results to the Clipboard or graph them on an XY plot.
Data Properties:
with the results at each grid point (or mesh node) in the result plane. If the analysis has not been solved yet, then the
Data Table is empty.
Data Table: The XYZ coordinates and parameter values at each grid point (or mesh node).
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Expand: Displays a dialog box containing a larger Data Table. This is useful for displaying the results at many
points on the result plane. The dialog box also allows you to select another parameter, copy the data to the
Clipboard, or graph the data.
Graph: Displays a new window containing an XY plot of the data.
Graph Properties:
The Graph window contains an XY plot of the results data at each point on the result plane. You can resize the
Graph window by dragging one of the window corners or edges.
Independent Variable: The independent variable on the XY plot can be the X, Y, or Z coordinates of the point
on the result plane, the distance between each point, or time (for a transient analysis). Click the arrow on the "vs"
combo box to select to select an independent variable for the plot.
X or Y axis of the plot. By default, the independent variable is plotted along the X axis. When the independent
variable is the Y coordinate, it may be more useful to display the Y coordinate along the Y axis of the plot.
Result Plane Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click a result plane object:
Delete: Deletes the selected result plane.
Rename: Renames the selected result plane.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected result plane.
Isosurface
An Isosurface can be thought of as the three-dimensional counterpart of the two-dimensional contour line. It is a
surface drawn through equal values of the parameter chosen in the Isosurface property sheet. An isosurface can be
created by right-clicking the Result Set and selecting the New Isosurface command.
Isosurface Property Sheet

To modify the properties of an isosurface, open the appropriate Result Set folder in the Tree View, right-click the
Isosurface name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Isosurface property sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the isosurface. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the isosurface.
Detail Page:
Parameter: The parameter for which to generate an isosurface. When you select a new parameter, a new
isosurface is generated for the selected parameter.
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Value: The value of the isosurface. Changing the value will regenerate the isosurface to create a new surface of
equal values of the selected parameter.
Color: The color of the isosurface. Click on the arrow to select a new color.
Opacity: The opacity of the isosurface. An opacity of 0% makes the isosurface invisible, while an opacity of 100%
means that all objects behind the isosurface cannot be seen. Setting the opacity at 50% makes the isosurface semi-
transparent, allowing you to see both the isosurface and the objects behind the isosurface at the same time.
Isosurface Commands
The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click an isosurface object:
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected isosurface.
Hull Contour
Hull Contours are contours drawn on the exposed surfaces of regions. Regions can be toggled on or off for display
purposes using the Details tab on the Solid Regions property sheet. Hull contours will only be drawn on regions that
are displayed. Hull contours can be created by right-clicking on the Result Set and selecting the New Hull Contours
command. Since only one Hull Contours object needs to be specified per result set, you should not need to create or
delete Hull Contours. If you wish to remove the Hull Contours, simply set their opacity to 0%.
Hull contours Property Sheet

To modify the properties of the Hull Contours, open the appropriate Result Set folder in the Tree View, right-click
the Hull Contours name, and select Properties. The following pages are available on the Hull Contours property
sheet:
Name Page:
Name: A unique name for the hull contours. Any spaces used in the name will be replaced with underscores.
Description: A text description of the hull contours.
Detail Page:
Opacity: The opacity of the hull contours. An opacity of 0% makes the hull contours invisible, while an opacity of
100% means that all objects behind the hull contours cannot be seen. Setting the opacity at 50% makes the hull
contours semi-transparent, allowing you to see both the hull contours and the objects behind the hull contours at the
same time.
Hull Contours Commands

The following commands are available from the menu bar or when you right-click the hull contours object:
Delete: Deletes the selected hull contours. Instead of deleting the Hull Contours, it is preferable to set the opacity
to 0%.
Rename: Renames the selected hull contours.
Properties: Displays the property sheet for the selected hull contours.
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Theory
This section presents the methods, equations, procedures, and techniques used in the formulation and development
of the three-dimensional finite element analysis functionality of Seep3D. It is of value to be familiar with this
information in order to use the software. An understanding of these concepts will be of great benefit in applying the
software, resolving difficulties, and judging the acceptability of the results.
Volumetric Water Content Functions

Fundamental to the formulation of a general seepage analysis is an understanding of the relationship between pore-
water pressure and volumetric water content. As water flows through soil, certain amounts of water are stored or
retained within the soil structure. The amount of water stored or retained is a function of the pore-water pressure and
the characteristics of the soil structure. For a seepage analysis, it is convenient to specify the stored portion of the
water flow as a ratio of the total volume. This ratio is know as the volumetric water content. In equation form:
where:
= volumetric water content
Vw = volume of water
V = total volume
The volumetric water content is dependent on the pore-water pressure. The following figure illustrates this
relationship, which is also known as the soil-water characteristic function, (see Fredlund, D.G. and Rahardjo, H,
1993, pp. 136-140).
General Form of Volumetric Water Content Function

84 Seep3D
When the degree of saturation is 100%, the volumetric water content is equivalent to the soil porosity, which is
defined as the volume of voids divided by the total volume.
Consider a completely saturated soil where the pore-water pressure is near zero, and the total external load on the
soil remains constant. As the pore-water pressure becomes more positive, the effective stress will decrease. This
causes the soil to swell and results in an increase in its water content. As the pore-water pressure becomes negative,
the soil begins to desaturate and the water content decreases. Ultimately, the soil becomes completely desaturated,
and the water content no longer changes with a further decrease in pore-water pressure.
The slope of the volumetric water content function (designated as mw) represents the rate of change in the amount of
water retained by the soil in response to a change in pore-water pressure. When the pore-water pressure is positive,
mw is equivalent to mv, the coefficient of volume compressibility for one-dimensional consolidation. The parameter
mw is required in a transient seepage analysis.
Volumetric water content functions for fine-grained (clay) soils may be relatively flat, while for coarse-grained soils
(sand) the function may be quite steep. The following figure presents actual volumetric water content curves
obtained by Ho, 1979, for fine sand, silt, and clay. The variation in these curves demonstrates the effect that the soil
properties have on the characteristic functions. Appendix A presents guidelines for establishing these functions in
the laboratory; it also contains more typical published functions.
Actual Volumetric Water Content Functions for Fine Sand, Silt, and Clay
Hydraulic Conductivity Functions

Water in liquid form can be considered to flow along a web of interconnected but continuous conduits. Decreasing
the water content has the effect of decreasing the size and number of conduits, thereby reducing the capacity to
conduct water through the soil. Ultimately, when the soil is dry, the capacity to conduct water along continuous
water-filled conduits disappears. When the soil is saturated, all of the available conduits are utilized, and the water
hydraulic conductivity capacity is at a maximum.
The capacity of soil to conduct water can be viewed in terms of hydraulic conductivity (or the coefficient of
permeability). In this context, the hydraulic conductivity is dependent on the water content. Since the water content
is a function of pore-water pressure and the hydraulic conductivity is a function of water content, it follows that
85 GeoStudio
hydraulic conductivity is also a function of pore-water pressure. The following figure presents a curve showing a
typical relationship between hydraulic conductivity and pore-water pressure.
A Hydraulic Conductivity Function
Techniques have been developed for predicting the hydraulic conductivity function from a volumetric water content
function. Establishing the water content function is generally not as complicated as conducting laboratory tests to
measure the conductivity function.
Defining the hydraulic conductivity for negative pore-water pressure regions makes it possible to analyze problems
involving unsaturated flow as well as saturated flow.
Flow Law
The functionality of Seep3D is formulated on the basis that the flow of water through both saturated and unsaturated
soil follows Darcy's Law which states that:
q = ki
where:
q = specific discharge
k = hydraulic conductivity
i = gradient of fluid head or potential
Darcy's Law was originally derived for saturated soil, but later research has shown that it can also be applied to the
flow of water through unsaturated soil (see Richards, 1931 and Childs & Collins-George, 1950). The only difference
is that under conditions of unsaturated flow the hydraulic conductivity is no longer a constant but varies with
changes in water content and indirectly varies with changes in pore-water pressure.
86 Seep3D
Darcy's Law is often written as:
v = ki
where v is known as the Darcian velocity.
The actual average velocity at which water moves through the soil is the Darcian velocity divided by the porosity of
the soil. Seep3D computes and presents only the Darcian velocity.
Governing Equations
The governing differential equation used in the formulation of the seepage analysis functionality of Seep3D is:
where:
H = total head
kx = hydraulic conductivity in the x-direction
ky = hydraulic conductivity in the y-direction
kz = hydraulic conductivity in the z-direction
= volumetric water content
t = time
This equation states that the difference between the flow (flux) entering and leaving an elemental volume at a point
in time is equal to the change in the volumetric water content. More fundamentally, it states that the sum of the rates
of change of flows in the x-, y- and z-directions plus the external applied flux is equal to the rate of change of the
volumetric water content with respect to time.
Under steady-state conditions, the flux entering and leaving an elemental volume is the same at all times. The right
side of the equation consequently vanishes and the equation reduces to:
Changes in volumetric water content are dependent on changes in the stress state and the properties of the soil.
The stress state for both saturated and unsaturated conditions can be described by two state variables (see Fredlund
and Morgenstern, 1976 and Fredlund and Morgenstern, 1977). These stress state variables are ( - ua) and (ua - uw)
where is the total stress, ua is the pore-air pressure, and uw is the pore-water pressure.
Seep3D is formulated for conditions of constant total stress; that is, there is no loading or unloading of the soil mass.
The second assumption is that the pore-air pressure remains constant at atmospheric pressure during transient
processes. This means that ( - ua) remains constant and has no effect on the change in volumetric water content.
Changes in volumetric water content are consequently dependent only on changes in the (ua - uw) stress state
variable, and with ua remaining constant, the change in volumetric water content is a function only of pore-water
pressure changes.
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A change in volumetric water content can be related to a change in pore-water pressure by the equation:
where mw is the slope of the storage curve.
The total hydraulic head is defined as:
where:
uw = pore-water pressure
= unit weight of water
y = elevation
This equation can be rearranged as:
Substituting this equation into the equation that describes these change in volumetric water content that is related to
a change in pore-water pressure, gives the following equation:
Which now can be substituted into the equation, leading to the following expression:
Since the elevation is a constant, the derivative of y with respect to time disappears, leaving the following governing
differential equation:
Coordinate Systems
GeoStudio divides every material region into hex elements. The local coordinate system used in the formulation of
element matrices is presented in the figure below. Presented as well are the local coordinates and the element node
numbering system of a general 20 node hex element. The local coordinates for each of the nodes are given in the
table.
88 Seep3D
Global and Local Coordinate Systems of a Hex Element in GeoStudio

89 GeoStudio
Local Coordinates and Node Numbering System of a Hex Element in GeoStudio
Node r s t
1 -1 -1 1
2 1 -1 1
3 1 1 1
4 -1 1 1
5 -1 -1 -1
6 1 1 1
7 1 -1 1
8 -1 1 -1
9 0 -1 1
10 1 0 1
11 0 1 1
12 -1 0 1
13 0 -1 -1
14 1 0 -1
15 0 1 -1
16 -1 0 -1
17 -1 -1 0
18 1 -1 0
19 -1 1 0
20 -1 1 0
The local and global coordinate systems are related by a set of interpolation (shape) functions. GeoStudio uses the
same functions for relating the coordinate systems as for describing the variation of the field variable (head) within
the element. The elements are consequently isoparametric elements.
The x-, y- and z-coordinates anywhere in the element are related to the local coordinates and to the x-,y- and z-
coordinates of the nodes by the following equations:
x = <N> {X}
y = <N> {Y}
z = <N> {Z}
where <N> is a vector of interpolating shape functions and {X} {Y} and {Z} are the global x-,y- and z- coordinates of
the element nodes. The interpolating functions are expressed in terms of local coordinates. Therefore, once a set of
90 Seep3D
local coordinates (r,s,t) have been specified, the corresponding global coordinates can be determined by the above
equations.
Interpolating Functions
Seep3D uses a general set of interpolating functions presented by Bathe, 1982, pp. 200, 230. These general functions
are suitable for elements which have none, some, or all of the secondary nodes defined. This allows for considerable
versatility in the types of elements that can be used.
The interpolating functions in terms of local coordinates r, s and t for hex elements are given in the following table.
Interpolation Functions for Hex Elements
Functions Include in function if node is present

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9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
-½N9 - - -½N12 - - - - -½N17 - - -
N1= (1-r)(1-s)(1+t)
-½N9 -½N10 - - - - - - - -½N18 - -

N2= (1+r)(1-s)(1+t)
- -½N10 -½N11 - - - - - - - -½N19 -
N 3= (1+r)(1+s)(1+t)
- - -½N11 -½N12 - - - - - - - -½N20
N4= (1-r)(1+s)(1+t)
- - - - -½N13 - - - -½N17 - - -
N 5= (1-r)(1-s)(1-t)
- - - - -½N13 -½N14 - - - -½N18 - -
N6= (1-r)(1-s)(1+t)
- - - - - -½N14 -½N15 - - - -½N19 -

N7= (1+r)(1+s)(1-t)
- - - - - - -½N15 -½N16 - - - -½N20
N8= (1-r)(1+s)(1-t)
N9=¼(1-r2)(1-s)(1+t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N10=¼(1+r)(1-s2)(1+t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N11=¼(1-r2)(1+s)(1+t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N12=¼(1-r)(1-s2)(1+t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N13=¼(1-r)(1-s)(1+t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N14=¼(1-r2)(1-s)(1-t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N15=¼(1-r2)(1+s)(1-t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N16=¼(1-r)(1-s2)(1-t) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N17=¼(1-r)(1-s)(1-t2) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N18=¼(1+r)(1-s)(1-t2) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N19=¼(1+r)(1+s)(1-t2) - - - - - - - - - - - -
N20=¼(1-r)(1+s)(1-t2) - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - - - - - - - - -
The functions represent a linear equation when the secondary nodes are missing and a quadratic (nonlinear) equation
when the secondary nodes are included.
Field Variable Model

To formulate a finite element analysis it is necessary to adopt a model for the distribution of the field variable within
the element. Since the field variable in the seepage analysis is the total head (H), it is necessary to adopt a model for
the distribution of H within the element.
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Seep3D assumes that the head distribution within the element follows the adopted interpolating functions. This
means that the head distribution is linear when the secondary nodes are missing, and the head distribution is
nonlinear when the secondary nodes are present.
In equation form the head distribution model is:
h = <N> {H}
where:
h = head at any local coordinate
<N> = vector of interpolation function
{H} = vector of heads at the nodes
Derivatives of Interpolation Functions

The constitutive relationship for a seepage analysis is Darcy's Law. The equation is:
q=ki
The gradient i is one of the key parameters required in the finite element formulation. The following presents the
procedure used by Seep3D to compute the gradient.
From the adopted head distribution model, the head at any point within the element in terms of the nodal heads is:
h = <N> {H}
The gradients in the x, y and z directions are:
Since the interpolating functions are written in terms of r,s and t rather than x, y and z, the derivatives must
consequently be determined by the chain rule of differentiation, as follows:
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This can be written as:
where [J] is the Jacobian matrix and is defined as:
The derivative of the interpolation function with respect to x, y and z is called the B matrix and can be determined
by inverting the Jacobian matrix and rewriting the equations as:
Recall from the Coordinate Systems equations that:
x = <N> {X}
y = <N> {Y}
z = <N> {Z}
94 Seep3D
Substituting these values into the Jacobian matrix, it becomes:
Knowing the global X, Y and Z coordinates and the interpolating function derivatives of all nodes in an element, the
Jacobian matrix can be computed using this last equation, and the flow gradients B matrix can be computed using
the inverted Jacobian matrix. The Jacobian matrix is a 3x3 matrix and its inverse and determinant can be obtained
with standard matrix mathematics.
Finite Element Equations

The finite element equation that follows from applying the Galerkin method of weighed residual to the governing
differential equation is:
where:
[B] = gradient matrix

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[C] = element hydraulic conductivity matrix
{H} = vector of nodal heads
<N>T<N> = [M] = mass matrix
{H},t = = change in head with time
q = unit flux across the faces of an element
N> = vector of interpolating function
In abbreviated form, the finite element equation is:
where:
K] = element characteristic matrix
M] = element mass matrix
Q} = element flux vector
The previous equation is the general finite element equation for a transient seepage analysis. For a steady-state
analysis, the head is not a function of time and consequently the term [M] {H},t vanishes, reducing the finite
element equation to:
Time Integration
The finite element solution for a transient analysis is a function of time as indicated by the {H},t term in the finite
element equation. The time integration can be performed by a finite difference approximation scheme.
Writing the finite element equation in terms of finite differences leads to the following equation (see Segerlind,
1984,pp. 183-185):
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where:
= time increment
= a ratio between 0 and 1
{H1} = head at end of time increment
{H0} = head at start of time increment
{Q1} = nodal flux at end of time increment
{Q0} = nodal flux at start of time increment
[K] = element characteristic matrix
M] = element mass matrix
Seep3D uses the Backward Difference Method, a method that sets to 1.0.
The transient finite equation for equal to 1.0 is:
As indicated by this equation, in order to solve for the new head at the end of the time increment, it is necessary to
know the head at the start of the increment. Stated in general terms, the initial conditions must be known in order to
perform a transient analysis.
Numerical Integration
Seep3D uses Gauss numerical integration to form the element characteristic matrix [K], the element mass matrix [M]
and the element flux vector {Q}. The integrals are sampled at specifically defined points in the elements and then
summed for all the points.
The following integral (from the finite element equation):
can be replaced by:
where:
j = integration point
n = number of integration points
det|Jj| = determinant of the Jacobian matrix
Wj = weighting factor
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The following two tables contain the number and location of sampling points that are used by Seep3D.
Sample Point Locations and Weighting for Eight Point Hex Element
Point r s t w
1 +0.57735 +0.57735 +0.57735 1
2 -0.57735 +0.57735 +0.57735 1

3 -0.57735 -0.57735 +0.57735 1
4 +0.57735 -0.57735 +0.57735 1
5 +0.57735 +0.57735 -0.57735 1

6 -0.57735 +0.57735 -0.57735 1
7 -0.57735 -0.57735 -0.57735 1
8 +0.57735 -0.57735 -0.57735 1
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Sample Point Locations and Weighting for Twenty Seven Point Hex Element
Point r s t w
1 +0.77459 +0.77459 +0.77459 125/729
2 -0.77459 +0.77459 +0.77459 125/729
3 -0.77459 -0.77459 +0.77459 125/729

4 +0.77459 -0.77459 +0.77459 125/729
5 0.00000 +0.77459 +0.77459 200/729
6 -0.77459 0.00000 +0.77459 200/729

7 0.00000 -0.77459 +0.77459 200/729
8 +0.77459 0.00000 +0.77459 200/729
9 -0.77459 0.00000 +0.77459 320/729
10 +0.77459 +0.77459 0.00000 200/729
11 -0.77459 +0.77459 0.00000 200/729
12 -0.77459 -0.77459 0.00000 200/729
13 +0.77459 -0.77459 0.00000 200/729
14 0.00000 +0.77459 0.00000 320/729
15 -0.77459 0.00000 0.00000 320/729
16 0.00000 -0.77459 0.00000 320/729
17 +0.77459 0.00000 0.00000 320/729
18 0.00000 0.00000 0.00000 512/729
19 +0.77459 +0.77459 -0.77459 125/729
20 -0.77459 +0.77459 -0.77459 125/729
21 -0.77459 -0.77459 -0.77459 125/729
22 +0.77459 -0.77459 -0.77459 125/729
23 0.00000 +0.77459 -0.77459 200/729
24 -0.77459 0.00000 -0.77459 200/729
25 0.00000 -0.77459 -0.77459 200/729
26 +0.77459 0.00000 -0.77459 200/729
27 0.00000 0.00000 -0.77459 320/729
The number of integration points is denoted as the integration order. The appropriate integration order is a function
of the presence of secondary nodes. When secondary nodes are present, the interpolating functions are nonlinear and
consequently a higher integration order is required.
99 GeoStudio
It is also acceptable to use eight-point integration for hex elements with secondary nodes. This is called a reduced
integration order (see Bathe, 1982, p. 282). Acceptable results can be obtained with reduced integration. For
example, reduced integration is useful in saturated zones where the hydraulic gradient is low and the hydraulic
conductivity is constant. Selective use of reduced integration can greatly reduce the required number of
computations.
Hydraulic Conductivity Matrix

The general form of the hydraulic conductivity matrix used in GeoStudio is:
where:
C11 = kx cos2 cos2 + ky sin2 cos2 + kz sin2 cos2
C12 = kx sin cos cos - ky sin cos cos - kz sin sin cos
C13 = kx sin cos cos2 + ky sin cos sin2 - kz sin cos cos2
C21 = C12
C22 = kx sin2 + ky cos2 + kz sin2
C23 = kx sin sin cos - ky sin sin cos + kz sin cos cos
C31 = C13
C32 = C23
C33 = kx sin2 cos2 + ky sin2 sin2 + kz cos2 cos2
The following figure illustrates the direction of kx and the two angles and . is the angle between the
direction of kx and the horizontal (x-z) plan, where is the angle between the direction of kx and the vertical (x-y)
plan.
100 Seep3D
Definition of Hydraulic Conductivity Matrix Parameters
The parametric kx is always determined from the hydraulic conductivity function. Parameter ky and kz are then
computed from kx and the specified K-Ratios. In equation form,
Note that under isotropic condition, both and are zero, and [C] reduces to:
Mass Matrix
As first presented in the general finite element equation, the element mass (or storage) matrix can be expressed as:
101 GeoStudio
where:
mw = slope of storage curve
= unit weight of water
t = element thickness
<N> = vector of interpolating functions.
Seep3D uses a lumped formulation, to establish the mass matrix. The mass matrix is formed by numeric integration
as discussed in Numerical Integration in this chapter. This has the advantage of making it possible for the parameter
mw to vary throughout the element. Seep3D obtains an mw value from the storage function for each integration point.
Seep3D computes mw from the slope of a straight line between the old and new pore-water pressures at a Gauss
point, as illustrated in the below figure.
The slope of this straight line can be viewed as the average rate of change during one increment of time. This is
considered to be a more realistic value than taking the derivative of the function at a specific point.
An exception to this procedure is when the old and new pore-water pressures are nearly identical. In this case,
GeoStudio computes mw by calculating the derivative of the function at the average of the old and new pore-water
pressures.
Computation of mw
102 Seep3D
Flux Boundary
The boundary flux vector (Q) applied on a face of an element is defined as:
where:
{Q} = vector of nodal flux
q = unit flux applied on a face
A = area of the face of the element
<N> = vector of interpolating function
When a unit flux boundary (q) is specified on the face of an element. Gauss numerical integration is used in the
computation of the element flux matrix. The element flux vector applied to the nodes (Q) in an element is computed
based on the element flux matrix by diagonal scaling. This is a general procedure allowing the unit flux to be
different within a flux boundary face of an element, it also prevents the occurrence of a small negative flux at the
corner nodes when higher order elements are used.
When a unit flux boundary (q) is specified on the edge of an element (e.g., a line on a region), the element flux
vector applied to the nodes (Q) in an element, is computed in the same way as in a two-dimensional analysis with
the flux integrated along the length of the element edge.
When a unit flux boundary (q) is specified on a point, or free point, no integration is required. The unit flux
boundary is taken directly as the applied flux (Q) on the node of the element.
Assembly of Global Equations and Equation Solver

The element matrix for each element in the discretized finite element mesh can be formed and assembled into a
global system of simultaneous equations. The finite element solution requires the solving of the system of
simultaneous equations.
GeoStudio stores the coefficients of the global system equations using a Compressed Row Storage scheme (Barrett
et. al, 1994). This is a general scheme that make no assumptions about the sparsity structure of the matrix. Instead of
a full matrix with many zero elements, the Compressed Row Storage scheme stores the matrix with 3 vectors: one
for the non-zero elements, one for the column index and one for the row pointers. As a result, it provides significant
saving in storage memory particularly in large three-dimensional finite element analyses.
Seep3D utilizes a preconditioned Bi-Conjugate Gradient (BiCG) iterative solver in solving the system equations.
The BiCG solver is adopted from IML++ (Iterative Methods Library) made available freely by the National Institute
of Standards and Technology, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, U.S.A. The
BiCG solver works effectively with the compressed row storage scheme and is suitable for both symmetric and
unsymmetric system of equations.
As a result of the iterative solver, the solution of the system of simultaneous equations is to a large degree dependent
on the convergence tolerance and the number of iterations. In most cases, the default tolerance and number of
iterations will be adequate for a solution.
Iteration Scheme
The objective of solving the finite element equations is to compute the total head at each node. For linear analyses
when the material properties are constant, the nodal total head can be computed directly. However, in the cases of
nonlinear analyses, when the material hydraulic conductivity is a function of total head, the correct material
103 GeoStudio
properties are not known at the start of the analysis; consequently, an iterative scheme is required to solve the
equations.
Seep3D uses a repeated substitution technique in the iterative process. For the first iteration, the user-specified initial
heads are used to define the material properties. The material properties are updated in subsequent iteration using the
computed head from the previous iteration. For transient analyses, the head at the mid-point of the time interval is
used to define the material properties; that is, the material properties are defined at the average of the past and
current computed heads. The iterative process continues until the iteration number reaches the maximum number
specified or until the results satisfy the convergence criteria.
Seep3D uses the Euclidean vector norm of the change in head vector between iterations as well as the
change in flux vector between iterations as a measure of convergence. These two vector norm are defined
as:
where:
n = number of nodes
= nodal total head difference between two consecutive iterations
= nodal total flux difference between two consecutive iterations
The vector norms are a measure of the size of the changes in nodal total head and nodal flux. The solution is deemed
to have converged when both vector norms are less than a user-specified convergence tolerance.
When analyzing problems with potential seepage boundaries, a converged solution is reviewed to check if a seepage
face has developed on potential seepage boundaries. As a result, boundary conditions on potential seepage
boundaries may be adjusted, and the iteration process may be repeated on the boundary conditions until all potential
seepage boundaries satisfy the adaptive iteration.
Gradients and Velocities

Once the solution has converged and the nodal heads are known, Seep3D computes the hydraulic gradients and
Darcian flow velocities at each of the integration points within each element. The gradient at each Gauss or
integration point is computed from the equation:
104 Seep3D
where:
ix = gradient in x direction
iy = gradient in y direction
iz = gradient in z direction
[B] = gradient matrix as defined in Finite Element Equations
{H} = vector of total head at the nodes
The Darcian velocities at each Gauss point are computed from the equation:
where:
vx = velocity in x direction
vy = velocity in y direction
vz = velocity in z direction
[C] = hydraulic conductivity matrix
The Seep3D velocity is actually the Darcian velocity or the specific discharge, which is the total flux divided by the
full cross-sectional area (voids and solids alike); it is not the actual speed with which the water moves between the
soil particles. The actual microscopic velocity or the linear velocity at a point can be calculated by dividing the
Darcian velocity by the volumetric water content at that point.
Flow Quantities
Seep3D has the ability to compute the seepage quantity that flows across any region faces. This quantity can be
computed using the basic finite element equation:
This equation indicates that once the total head is known, the flow quantity at all nodes of an element can be
computed based on the element characteristic matrix [K], the element mass matrix [M], the elapsed time step and the
total head of the previous time step. In a steady-state analysis, the storage term [M] becomes zero, and the equation
is reduced to:
105 GeoStudio
Flow quantity at a node can be summed together to give flow quantity of a region face. As a sign convention, a
positive quantity signifies recharge into the flow system and a negative quantity signifies discharge out of the flow
system.
Material Functions
Seep3D uses weighted spline interpolation techniques (Salkauskas, 1974, and Lancaster and Salkauskas, 1986) to
create smooth, continuous conductivity, and volumetric water content (or storage) functions. In addition to defining
a continuous and smooth function, spline interpolation also provides first derivatives of the curve at any point.
Since all functions are approximations of real-world behavior, it is often convenient to use measured data values for
the definition of a function. These values, however, usually do not lie along a smooth, continuous curve. A spline
function that is fit to these values will appear jagged and will not accurately reflect the measured data. To overcome
this problem, GeoStudio provides a means of controlling how the spline curve is fit to the data points. For each
function, you can assign a "Fit Curve to Data (Smooth) percentage" and a "Curve Segments (Tension) percentage"
between 0% and 100%.
When the curve is fit exactly (100%) to the data points, the spline passes through each data point. As the curve
fitting is reduced, the spline shape approaches a straight line that passes close to each data point. This is useful when
you want to approximate a spline through laboratory-measured data points without moving any of the data points.
When the curve segments are curved (100%) between data points, the curve is defined as a natural spline. As the
curve segments are made straighter, the curve segments approach a straight line between data points. Straightening
the curve segments helps to prevent "spline overshoot" (extreme peaks or valleys in the spline). It also allows you to
define "step" functions that have straight line segments between each data point.
106 Seep3D
Modelling Guidelines
A finite element analysis is accomplished in three steps. The first step is to model the problem. This involves
designing the finite element mesh, defining the material properties, and specifying the boundary conditions. The
second step is to analyze the model by formulating and solving the finite element equations. The third step is to view
the results through contouring and graphing. It is the user's responsibility to properly model the problem and verify
the validity of the solution.
This section presents some general modelling guidelines. The information presented is not an exhaustive statement
on the "how-to" of modelling. Instead, it is intended to provide suggestions on how you might model various
conditions, as well as to outline the implications and consequences of certain modelling specifications.
Modelling Progression
One of the most important rules to follow in finite element modelling is to progress from the simple to the complex.
It is good practice to initially define a simplified version of the problem and then add complexity in stages.
Moving from the simple to the complex makes it easier to pinpoint difficulties with the model when the results of
the analysis are unrealistic. Determining what causes unrealistic results can be difficult if all of the possible
complexities are included at the start of the problem analysis. Furthermore, in finite element modelling, it is
important that the results obtained are of a form similar to results obtained from simple hand calculations. It is easier
to make this judgment if you start with a simplified version of the problem.
The principle of moving from the simple to the complex can be illustrated in the analysis of seepage through a zoned
earth dam. Initially, the modelling task can be simplified by assigning all of the materials the same properties, which
is equivalent to making the section homogeneous. Once the solution appears reasonable, complexity can be added to
the problem by changing the properties of the various zones in stages. This stepped approach not only helps to
evaluate the results but also provides information on the effect of the various zones.
A nonlinear analysis with a steep conductivity function may cause considerable convergence difficulties. This is
another example of where a gradual modelling progression can be useful by initially using flat or constant
conductivity functions to first obtain a converged solution quickly, and gradually increase the steepness of the
conductivity function until they are more desirable functions. This approach allows you to judge if a computed
solution is stable, it also helps to appreciate the sensitivity of the solution to the conductivity functions. In general, a
stable solution with flatter conductivity functions is more meaningful than an unstable solution with steep
conductivity functions.
Units
Seep3D allows the modelling of a problem in SI and Imperial units. Fundamentally, you must select the units for
length (geometry), time, and force. Once you have selected units for these parameters, all other units must be
consistent. The following tables present some typical sets of consistent units used in Seep3D.
107 GeoStudio
Consistent SI Units
Parameter Symbol Units

Length L Metres (m)
Time T Seconds (sec)
Force F Kilo-Newton (kN)

Pressure F/L2 kPa (kN/m2)
Unit Weight of Water F/L3 kN/m3
Hydraulic Conductivity L/t m/sec

Total and Pressure Head L m
Nodal Flux (Q) L3/t m3/sec
Unit Flux (q) on a face L3/t/L2 m/sec
Unit Flux (q) on a line L3/t/L m2/sec
Flux quantity L3/t m3/sec
Velocity L/t m/sec
Volume L3 m3
Consistent Imperial Units
Parameter Symbol Units

Length L Feet (ft)
Time T Hours (hr)
Force F Pounds (p)
Pressure F/L2 Psf (p/ft2)
Unit Weight of Water F/L3 Pcf (p/ft3)
Hydraulic Conductivity L/t ft/hr
Total and Pressure Head L ft
Nodal Flux (Q) L3/t ft3/hr
Unit Flux (q) on a face L3/t/L2 ft/hr
Unit Flux (q) on a line L3/t/L ft2/hr
Flux quantity L3/t ft3/hr
Velocity L/t ft/hr
Volume L3 ft3
108 Seep3D
The units of time are established once you select the units for hydraulic conductivity. The units of pressure are
established once you select the unit weight of water. Generally, all units are defined by selecting the units of length
for the problem geometry (either in meter or feet), units for hydraulic conductivity, and the units for the unit weight
of water.
In summary, the key requirement is that the system of units be consistent.
Mesh Design
The amount of computer memory storage and processing time required to solve the finite element equations is
proportional to the number of nodes in the problem and the integration order. Furthermore, the accuracy of the
results is affected to some extent by the shape of the elements. Consequently, care should be exercised in generating
the domain in Seep3D and refining the finite element mesh.
It is good practice to choose a balance between ease of mesh generation and efficiency of processing. Directing a
large amount of effort at mesh refinements to gain marginal processing efficiency is likely not warranted. However,
total disregard for computer memory storage and processing efficiencies may result in a large amount of
unnecessary computing time. As a general guideline, some thought should be given to processing efficiency but not
at the expense of complicating the mesh generation.
The accuracy and performance of an element is affected to some extent by its shape. For hex elements, the best
performance is achieved when the interior angles are all 90 degrees. Acceptable performance can be obtained for
elements with interior angles deviate from 90 degrees; however, the performance of the elements deteriorates
rapidly if any interior angle approaches zero or 180 degrees. In the case of hex elements, interior angles equal to or
greater than 180 degrees are unacceptable. The following figures show the shape and performance rating of
elements.
The aspect ratio (length to height) of elements can also affect the performance. As the aspect ratio increases, the
element performance deteriorates. Seep3D has no restrictions on the aspect ratio. It is a parameter that you must
choose in light of conditions specific to the problem. In general, an aspect ratio of 1 gives the best performance.
Long, thin elements with aspect ratios much greater 5 can lead to poor results. The notorious culprit for poor aspect
ratios is the triangular faces of prisms and tets. Seep3D uses an all hex meshing scheme and the triangle faces are
subdivided into 3 quads which typically results in poor aspect ratios for the quads as below. If you are going to use
elements with very high aspect ratios, you should satisfy yourself that the results are realistic by trying different
aspect ratios.
Element Shapes and Performance
Best Performance Region and Elements
Acceptable Performance Region and Elements

109 GeoStudio
Poor Performance Elements
Unacceptable Performance Elements
Try to replace unnecessary triangle faces as shown in this simplistic case below.
Relevant Materials
Thought must be given to the relevance of each material included in the analysis. In certain cases, the analysis and
modelling can be simplified by excluding irrelevant materials. A valid question to ask is, "Does the material
contribute to the energy (head) dissipation?" If not, there may be little or no value in including the material in the
analysis.
For example, consider a cross-section of a rock-filled dam with a clay core and a downstream granular drainage
blanket as illustrated in the following figure. The hydraulic conductivity of the rockfill and granular drain is much
higher than that for the clay core and the foundation materials.
110 Seep3D
Rockfill Dam with Clay Core
On the upstream side of the dam, since the rockfill is considerably more pervious than the core, there is essentially
zero head dissipated in the upstream shell. Therefore, the head at all nodes in the shell zone is essentially equal to
the reservoir level. Conditions along the boundary between the upstream shell and the core, and between the shell
and the foundation, are known and can be specified. Consequently, there is no need to include the upstream shell in
the analysis.
Materials such as rockfill essentially have an infinitely steep (vertical) conductivity function. Portions of the
material that is below the water table have a relatively high hydraulic conductivity while portions above the water
table have an infinitely low hydraulic conductivity. In other words, there is essentially no flow when the rockfill is
totally unsaturated. Since the downstream rockfill is behind the granular drain and above the downstream water
table, it will be unsaturated. Therefore, there is no need to include the downstream rockfill shell. Including the
downstream rockfill materials can lead to wide oscillation in the solution and create unmanageable convergence
problems.
Assuming that the downstream drainage blanket is constructed in such a way that it can carry away any seepage that
comes through the core, there will be no buildup of head in the drain. Stated another way, since the granular drain in
no way impedes the drainage through the core, none of the reservoir head is dissipated in the granular drain. The
head in the horizontal portion of the drain will be equal to the elevation of the tail water when the drain functions as
intended. Consequently, conditions along the contact between the drain and the foundation are known and can be
specified. Therefore, there is no need to include the granular drain in the analysis as well.
The complicated problem as shown above can be simplified by modelling the clay core and the foundation alone.
The key issue in deciding if a particular material is relevant to a problem analysis is whether the material contributes
to dissipating the excess head. If so, the material must be included in the analysis. If not, it may be possible to obtain
a faster and better solution by not including the material in the seepage analysis.
In the cases when it is essential to include materials with widely contrasting hydraulic conductivity properties, the
associated convergence difficulties can be reduced by including transition zones between the material types. For
example, modelling clay immediately up against coarse gravel can create unmanageable convergence problems. In
reality, there will likely be a gradual transition zone between the materials. Including a transition zone in the
analysis to reduce the contrast in conductivity functions can assist in overcoming convergence difficulties.
As a general rule, convergence difficulties often arise when you attempt to model conditions that would not
normally exist in the field.
Basic Solution Requirements

The basic requirements for performing a steady state analysis are:
• finite element discritization of the flow domain

111 GeoStudio
• the hydraulic conductivity function of the materials (K-functions)
• the boundary conditions specification
The additional basic requirements for performing a transient analysis are:
• the soil-water characteristic curve of the materials (Volumetric water content function)
• the initial conditions of the flow domain
• the time step specification
Furthermore, since Seep3D is formulated using total head as the primary variable, in order to obtain a unique
solution to a flow problem, the total head value of at least one node must be known and specified. Therefore, when
Seep3D calculates the total head at all nodes in the flow problem, the total head at all other nodes can be calculated
with reference to the known head.
In a steady state analysis, the above requirement suggest that at least a region node, a region edge or a region surface
must be specified with a head boundary condition. However, in a transient analysis, since the initial condition of the
flow system must be known and specified, a unique solution can be obtained with reference to the known initial
head. In other words, you may obtain a unique solution in a transient analysis even if all the boundaries are specified
as flux boundary conditions.
Incremental Time Sequences

An incremental time sequence is required for all transient analyses. The appropriate time sequence depends on the
problem being solved. In most cases it will likely be necessary to try a few reasonable time steps and then adjust the
time step sequence in response to the computed results. For example, if the migration of the wetting front is too
rapid, the time steps need to be decreased; if the migration is too slow, the time steps need to be increased.
The accuracy of the computed results can depend to some extent on the size of the time steps, especially during the
early stage of the transient process. Over the period of one time increment, the process is considered to be linear.
Each time step analysis is equivalent to a mini steady-state analysis. The incremental stepping forward in time is in
reality an approximation of the nonlinear process. For the same rate of change, large time steps lead to more of an
approximation than small time steps. It follows that when the rate of change is high, the time steps should be small,
and when the rate of change is low, the time steps should be large.
In general, many seepage processes related to the dissipation of excess pore-water pressures and infiltration follow
an exponential form. The dissipation or infiltration is rapid at first and then decreases with time. A typical example
is the consolidation of a soil. To model this situation, the time step sequence should approximately follow an
exponential form. The time steps should be small at first and then progressively increase.
Conductivity Function Requirements

A completely defined hydraulic conductivity function should be specified for each material in a problem that will
experience unsaturated conditions. Even if the hydraulic conductivity function is an estimate, the results will be
more realistic when a complete function is used than if a constant conductivity function is used.
Adopting a horizontal hydraulic conductivity function (i.e., a constant conductivity) for an unsaturated soil can lead
to unrealistic results. The phreatic surface may end up at an unrealistic position, and the proportion of flow through
the unsaturated zone may be too high. When a flat function is used, the water is allowed to flow through the
unsaturated zone with the same ease as it does through the saturated zone. Stated another way, for a given constant
head differential, the volume of flow is the same in the unsaturated zone as in the saturated zone when the hydraulic
conductivities in the two zones are the same. In general, water does not flow through an unsaturated soil with the
same ease as it does through a saturated soil. As the pores or voids in the soil drain and become filled with air, the
tortuosity of the flow path increases and the ability of the soil to transport water decreases. As a result, the hydraulic
112 Seep3D
conductivity of an unsaturated soil is lower than the saturated hydraulic conductivity and is a function of the
negative pore-water pressures in the soil.
To illustrate the effect of assuming that hydraulic conductivity is independent of negative pore-water pressure (i.e., a
horizontal conductivity function), consider the example of seepage flow through a rectangular screened box, as
shown below. Initially, the box is filled with clay and the phreatic surface is in the shape of a hyperbolic curve.
Now enlarge the box, keeping the upstream portion filled with a clay, but filling the downstream half with a sand. If
the sand is assigned a horizontal hydraulic conductivity function, the phreatic surface in the clay will be at a lower
position in (b) than it was in (a). The reason for this is that a significant portion of the flow passes through the
unsaturated sand. Since the resistance to flow is the same in the unsaturated sand as in the saturated sand, there is no
reason for the sand to be saturated in order to conduct the water. Intuition alone suggests that this would not be the
case. The phreatic surface in the clay should be approximately the same for both configurations, and the seepage that
reaches the clay-sand contact should flow vertically down the contact and then continue horizontally along the
bottom of the box to the exit point at the lower right corner.
To model the clay-sand configuration, the sand needs to be assigned a very steep function, such that as soon as the
sand desaturates, the hydraulic conductivity drops dramatically. This ensures that there will be no significant flow in
the unsaturated sand. However, assigning a soil a nearly vertical conductivity function may cause convergence
difficulties. A compromise would be to use a moderately steep hydraulic conductivity function that would eliminate
the majority of the flow in the unsaturated sand and yet produce a reasonable result. While it may not be an exact
solution, it would certainly be closer than the results from the first case where the sand has a horizontal hydraulic
conductivity function.
Coarse granular materials that are uniform in nature can have very steep (near vertical) hydraulic conductivity
functions. The soil desaturates completely under small negative pore-water pressures and liquid water transport
becomes effectively shut down such that further transport occurs through vapor flow. A soil of this nature would
experience almost no capillary rise and would not contribute a significant amount of flow in the unsaturated zone
under non-infiltrative conditions.
Whenever a problem contains a coarse granular soil that ideally has a near vertical hydraulic conductivity function
when unsaturated, it is necessary to ask the question, "Does the material contribute to the dissipation of the head?" If
it does not, then consideration should be given to excluding the material from the analysis. In the clay-sand box
example, the sand may not contribute to dissipating the head. Consequently, a reasonable solution might be obtained
by excluding the sand from the analysis and treating the vertical contact between the two materials as a boundary.
The decision as to whether the sand should be included in the analysis must also be made in light of the question,
"Does the negative pore-water pressure in the sand contribute to increasing the gradient in the clay?" If it does, the
sand must be included in the analysis. For more information on this topic, see the Relevant Materials topic.
113 GeoStudio
Effect of Defining a Horizontal Hydraulic Conductivity Function For An Unsaturated Soil
The accuracy with which the hydraulic conductivity needs to be specified depends to some extent on the objective of
the analysis. If the primary objective is to compute the distribution of pore-water pressure, then an approximate
function may be adequate. On the other hand, if the objective of the analysis is to make reliable time predictions,
then it may be necessary to define the storage and hydraulic conductivity with the assistance of laboratory tests.
The level of effort required to define the material functions can be evaluated by performing several analyses with
different assumed functions. Performing such a sensitivity analysis can greatly increase the confidence level of the
computed results.
In summary, a hydraulic conductivity function must be specified for each material included in an analysis, even if
the function is only an approximation. Using a fully defined conductivity function in the unsaturated zone results in
a much better solution than using a horizontal conductivity function.
Initial Conditions
It is essential to define initial conditions for a transient analysis. The initial conditions describe the starting total head
of each node in the system. If initial conditions are not identified, the model may still converge, but it could
converge around the wrong solution. It is also important to recognize that the initial conditions defined for a
transient analysis can have a significant effect on the solution obtained, as unrealistic initial conditions will lead to
unrealistic solutions. It may be especially difficult to interpret results when unrealistic initial conditions are used,
especially in the early stage of the transient analysis.
Seep3D allows you to specify the initial conditions by conducting a steady state analysis of the same domain which
ensures that the mesh discretization is the same for both the steady state and transient analyses. The following figure
114 Seep3D
illustrates two examples where steady-state flow problems are conducted to obtain initial conditions for the
subsequent transient analyses. Useful initial conditions for a transient simulation of seepage from a pond, (a), might
be to establish the steady-state regional groundwater flow defined by the water table elevation underneath the pond.
To conduct a transient analysis of seepage through a dam, (b), the initial conditions could be obtained by conducting
a steady-state simulation of flow through the dam due to a small water impoundment upstream from the dam.
Establishing Initial Conditions
In a steady-state analysis, the pore-water pressure in the unsaturated zone above the water table will vary in a linear
manner when the surface flux is specified as zero, as shown in (a). This means that the negative pore-water pressure
near the surface may become too high. A more realistic estimate of the initial negative pore-water pressure can be
established by specifying a small infiltration along the ground surface. The small surface flux has the effect of
changing the pore-water pressure profile as illustrated in (b).
The magnitude of the maximum negative pore-water pressure is dependent on the shape of the hydraulic
conductivity function and the rate of infiltration, which must be less than the saturated conductivity. In general,
applying a small non-zero surface flux tends to give a more realistic initial pore-water pressure estimates than a zero
surface flux.
115 GeoStudio
Effect of Surface Flux on Negative Pore-Water Pressures under Steady-State Conditions
Boundary Conditions
Either a head or flux boundary conditions must be specified on all boundaries of a flow domain. By default, Seep3D
assumes that all boundaries are specified with a zero flux boundary condition. In other words, you only have to
define the boundary conditions for non-zero flux and head boundaries.
The finite element solution in a seepage analysis is directly governed by the specified boundary conditions. In order
to obtain a realistic solution, it is extremely important to specify the correct boundary conditions along all
boundaries of the flow domain. Perhaps, the biggest challenge in conducting a seepage analysis is the ability to
identify and apply the appropriate boundary conditions to a flow domain. The following sections illustrate some
typical boundary conditions to consider.
Upstream Vertical Boundary

Consider the case of an irrigation canal as illustrated in the following figure. A common concern is the impact of a
manmade water retention structure on the natural groundwater regime. Leakage from the canal may cause the water
table to rise. The challenge in this example is to determine how to model the water table at the left vertical boundary.
116 Seep3D
Upstream Boundary Specification
The most common approach is to define a head boundary condition to the bottom edge on the upstream surface and
set it to reflect the location of the natural ground water table. Alternatively, the same head condition could be
applied to the entire upstream vertical surface. This approach is reasonable if the upstream boundary is extended far
enough from the canal, so that the effect on the water table due to the presence of the canal at the upstream boundary
is insignificant.
Another approach may be to define a flux boundary condition and determine the steady state flux due to the natural
groundwater at the upstream vertical boundary. The flux would then be specified as the upstream boundary
condition over the entire upstream vertical surface. This approach assumes that the natural flow that occurs at the
upstream boundary will remain the same after the canal is constructed. To achieve the constant natural inflow to the
system, the gradient must be maintained; to maintain the gradient, the water table must rise at the upstream
boundary.
Downstream Vertical Boundary

The most common approach to define a downstream vertical boundary is to specify the saturated zone of the
downstream boundary as a head boundary (applied either to the bottom vertical edge or the entire vertical face) that
reflects the location of the natural ground water table. The unsaturated zone that exists above the water table will
117 GeoStudio
still contribute to unsaturated flow. This approach is reasonable if the downstream boundary is extended far enough
from the canal, so that the effect on the water table due to the canal at the downstream boundary is insignificant.
Defining a flux boundary condition for a downstream vertical boundary is different than that of the upstream case,
since the flux quantity at the downstream boundary is impacted by the construction of the canal and cannot be
assumed to remain unchanged.
It is incorrect to define the downstream vertical boundary as a zero flux boundary over the entire surface, (i.e., either
a flux specified as having zero action, or leaving it undefined defaulting to a no-flow boundary) since this will force
all of the flow to the surface, as illustrated in the following figure. An exception may be when the downstream
boundary is actually extended to a natural water divide boundary where zero flux can be appropriately assumed .
Effect of Q = 0 Specification on a Downstream Vertical Boundary
Fluctuating Reservoir
A situation often encountered in seepage modelling is the rise and fall in the level of a reservoir. The fluctuations
result in boundary nodes becoming submerged as the water level rises and exposed once the water level falls.
Simulating a fluctuation in a reservoir level can be done by defining a boundary function of head versus time. When
the head boundary function is applied to a surface, the entire surface will respond to the changes in head as
described by the boundary function, including the portion that is located above the water level. For example, assume
that at one point in time, the reservoir level falls from a head of 23 (y-coordinate) to a head (y-coordinate) of 20. The
nodes at a y-coordinate of 22 were previously submerged but are now exposed. In response to the boundary
function, a head of 20 means that the boundary condition at the 22 (y-coordinate) nodes is -2 units of pore-water
pressure.
Flux Boundary
To model infiltration due to precipitation, it is possible to specify a unit flux on the surface of regions, such as
0.015m of rain per hour (just remember to be consistent with the units). The amount of precipitation that can
infiltrate the ground is partially controlled by the hydraulic conductivity of the soil and the gradient that exists. In a
steady state analysis, specifying a flux greater than the saturated hydraulic conductivity will result in excess head at
the boundary, which is equivalent to ponding on the surface. In a transient analysis, ponding will occur if the flux is
applied for a long enough time such that the storage becomes satisfied (i.e., the system becomes saturated).
When the rainfall rate is greater than the saturated hydraulic conductivity, the amount that can potentially infiltrate
the ground is approximately equal to the saturated hydraulic conductivity and the remaining portion either ponds or
disappears as runoff depending on the stratigraphy.
To model infiltration, Seep3D allows the unit flux to be defined as either a steady boundary flux value or as a
function of flux versus time. If the applied flux is greater than the saturated hydraulic conductivity, ponding can
occur. If the flux is applied as a potential boundary seepage flux, positive pressures will not develop and runoff
118 Seep3D
conditions are simulated (i.e., the pressures cannot become positive and water that does not infiltrate is lost from the
system). The potential boundary seepage option should not be used on the face of a reservoir that is filling as the
surface pressures will not be allowed to become positive.
Internal Boundary Conditions

Internal boundary conditions can be modelled by specifying boundary conditions on "Free Points", "Region Points",
"Region Edges" or "Region Faces", it is possible to specify a head or a nonzero flux along any of these locations
within the entire domain. This makes it convenient to model such features as a pumping well, an injection well or a
drainage tile.
If a tile drain functions as designed, the water pressure in the drain is a known value. In most cases, the drain will be
designed to remove all water that seeps into the drain, which would make the water pressure in the drain equal to
zero. Therefore, a drain can be modelled by setting the boundary condition on the free point/region point/region
edge or region face that represents the drain as pressure head equal to zero. Positive pressure may or may not
develop on the drain, if this is the case it is better to model the drain with a potential seepage boundary and then let
Seep3D convert the drain boundary condition from no flow to zero pressure, if positive pressure has developed.
If the size of the internal drain is large with respect to the modelled flow system, the size of the drain should be
modelled by actually incorporating an opening into the domain and applying the appropriate boundary conditions
around the perimeter of the opening.
Ground Surface Flux

There are features pertaining to the ground surface flux to be aware of when including a surface flux boundary
condition in a Seep3D analysis. The net infiltration or evaporative flux at the ground surface is related to a complex
interaction between atmospheric conditions, ground surface cover and soil conditions that exist potentially several
meters below the ground surface. Generally, only a portion of the precipitation that falls as rain or sprinkler
irrigation enters the ground. The amount that enters the ground is related to the rainfall rate and duration. The
infiltration rate may initially be equal to the rainfall, but gradually decreases to the saturated hydraulic conductivity
as the soil approaches saturation at the surface and the hydraulic gradient reduces to unity (Freeze and Cherry, 1979,
p. 214). Furthermore, plants through root uptake may intercept a portion of the infiltration, thereby reducing the net
seepage into the domain.
Further amounts of water entering the ground may later leave as a result of evaporation. As the surface dries, the
pore-water pressure near the surface becomes highly negative and an upward gradient develops. This draws water to
the surface can then be removed through evaporation.
Wilson, 1990, has shown that the pore-water pressure at the ground surface can become highly negative, as
illustrated in the following figure. The result is a thin, highly desiccated layer at the surface which can greatly reduce
the potential water loss through evaporation.
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Negative Pore-Water Pressure near the Ground Surface
Near the ground surface, water is lost in vapor form. To model this type of water loss, it is necessary to consider heat
flow as well as water flow, (Wilson, 1990). Seep3D is not formulated to model vapor flow. A separate computer
software package is required to compute the ground surface flux. The results from such a program could be used as
the boundary conditions for a Seep3D analysis as either a constant surface flux or as a function of time for a
transient analysis. No definitive guidelines can be offered on how to specify the ground surface flux, except that it is
necessary to perform a sensitivity analysis to establish the importance of the surface flux. Such a sensitivity analysis
may reveal that the surface flux is not a critical issue, and consequently a reasonable estimate may be adequate. If
the sensitivity analysis reveals that the surface flux is critical to the solution, then efforts will have to be directed
toward more clearly defining the ground surface flux.
Potential Seepage Boundaries

For certain types of seepage problems, the boundary conditions are a function of the flow process. A typical
example is where seepage exits on the downstream face of a homogeneous dam. The point where the phreatic
surface intersects the dam face is unknown. A similar situation arises after the drawdown of a reservoir, as indicated
in the figure below. Establishing the correct boundary conditions for these situations requires an iterative procedure
(i.e., adaptive iteration) similar to that required to solve the nonlinear finite element equations.
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Typical Location of Potential Seepage Faces
Seep3D allows the modelling of these special boundary conditions with a "potential seepage face". All nodes on the
potential seepage face are initially assigned a flux-type boundary condition. After the heads are computed for all
nodes, these nodes are reviewed to ensure that these nodes are either remind unsaturated or at zero water pressure
with water leaving the flow system.
During a transient analysis, all nodes in the potential seepage face are set to the specified flux boundary condition at
the start of each time step. This includes all nodes that were converted to seepage faces during the previous time
step. If the nodes are specified with a boundary function, the specified flux at the nodes is computed from the
function at the start of each time step.
Handling Convergence Difficulties

The solutions to unsaturated seepage problems can be highly nonlinear due to the variability in conductivity and in
the rate at which water is released or retained during a transient process. The degree of nonlinearity is dependent on
the steepness of the conductivity function and volumetric water content function. Difficulties with convergence can
be encountered when either of these material property functions become relatively steep.
The first thing to do when you experience convergence problems is to re-evaluate the relevance of coarse materials,
as discussed in the Relevant Materials topic in this chapter. If a coarse material does not contribute to dissipation of
the head, then you should try excluding the coarse material from the analysis. This will simplify the problem and
assist you in overcoming the convergence difficulties.
The Problem with Steep Functions

Coarse-grained materials can sustain a relatively small capillary zone and tend to desaturate almost completely at
small negative pore-water pressures. This behavior manifests itself in a very steep hydraulic conductivity function;
that is, a function where the hydraulic conductivity varies greatly with small changes in negative pore-water
pressure. A typical steep hydraulic conductivity function is shown in the figure below.
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A Typical Steep Hydraulic Conductivity Function
Very steep hydraulic conductivity functions can create difficulties with convergence. In fact, it may not be possible
to obtain convergence when the hydraulic conductivity function approaches a vertical line. The solution will tend to
diverge instead of converge and oscillate between two extreme solutions represented by the extremities of the
hydraulic conductivity function.
Consider the function illustrated above. Assume that for the first iteration all elements are assigned a saturated
hydraulic conductivity (ka) corresponding to zero pressure. This hydraulic conductivity will allow for more flow
than is required and will result in a highly negative pore-water pressure (Point Pf). For the next iteration, the
hydraulic conductivity will be kf. This value does not allow for enough flow, and the computed pressure will be
positive. Once again, the hydraulic conductivity will be set to a value that is too high, resulting in a solution which
oscillates between the extremities permitted by the function.
In order to obtain a converged solution for steep hydraulic conductivity functions, the change in hydraulic
conductivity from one iteration to the next must be controlled. Seep3D controls this change with three parameters:
Maximum_Change, Rate_of_Change, and Minimum_Change. Maximum_Change represents the maximum
allowable change in conductivity, Minimum_Change represents the minimum allowable change in conductivity, and
the Rate_of_Change parameter controls the rate of the conductivity change. These parameters can be found on the
Advanced Page of the Analysis Property Sheet.
Using Convergence Parameters

In Seep3D the convergence parameters can be found under the Analysis Property Sheet on two separate pages;
Convergence and Solver. On the Convergence Page, the parameters that control the maximum number of iterations
that the solver can execute before completing and the tolerance criteria for the simulation are presented.
The Seep3D conductivity changes presented on the Convergence Page (i.e., Maximum_Change, Rate_of_Change,
and Minimum_Change) can be thought of in terms of a circular search region. Maximum_Change is the radius of
the circle within which Seep3D is allowed to find a new k value. Rate_of_Change is the rate at which the radius of
the search circle decreases with successive oscillations. Minimum_Change is the minimum allowable radius of the
search circle.
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The Max_Change and Min_Change radius search values are expressed in terms of the log of the conductivity. For
example, a Maximum_Change value of 1.0 means that the conductivity can vary by one order of magnitude, while a
Maximum_Change value of 0.5 means the conductivity can vary by one half of an order of magnitude.
At each point of reversal in the convergence process, the Maximum_Change value is decreased by the
Rate_of_Change value. For example, assume that the Rate_of_Change value is 1.1 and the starting
Maximum_Change value is 1.0. After the first reversal in the convergence process, Maximum_Change is reduced to
0.91 (1.0/1.1), then to 0.83 (0.91/1.1) after the next reversal. This process continues until the computed
Maximum_Change value is less than the Minimum_Change value.
In the Solver Page you can specify the maximum number of iterations and tolerance for the iterative equation solver.
In general, the equation solver convergence criteria should not need to be altered from the default values.
Selecting Convergence Parameters

Unfortunately, there are no firm rules for selecting parameters that will lead to convergence. Usually, in difficult
convergence cases, it is necessary to try various combinations of parameters until an acceptable solution has been
obtained.
A reasonable initial value to use for Maximum_Change is 1 (one order of magnitude), and a modest value for the
Rate_of_Change, such as 1.1, is a good initial value. A low rate like this may mean that more iterations are required,
but there is a better chance of converging to the correct solution. A higher rate may require fewer iterations, but the
solver may reach the Minimum_Change value too soon and give you a false impression that the solution has
converged. A lower Rate_of_Change value is better, even if it results in more iterations being required.
One point to remember is that you must be careful not to make the Minimum_Change value too low. If this value is
too low, the percentage change from one iteration to the next may be less than the convergence tolerance, again
giving a false impression that the solution has converged when it really requires more iterations. If the
Minimum_Change parameter value is very low, then the convergence tolerance value must also be very low.
Effect of the Volumetric Water Content Function

Variation in the slope of the volumetric water content function, however, can also cause some convergence
problems. If you make changes to the convergence parameters but notice no changes in the convergence behavior,
then the convergence problem is likely caused by the volumetric water content function.
It is important to recognize that problems with convergence due to the volumetric water content function occur only
in a transient analysis and never in a steady state analysis. There are several things that you can do if you determine
that convergence problems arise due to the volumetric water content function. Some analyses may have convergence
problems in a few time steps, but most of the time steps may converge properly. (It is often most difficult to get
convergence in the first or second time steps). In this case, the overall solution may be acceptable even though
convergence has not been achieved for all time steps. As long as there is a consistent trend in the migration of the
wetting front, the solution is likely reasonable and acceptable. Lack of convergence in one or two time steps does
not necessarily mean that the entire solution is unacceptable.
Another thing that can be done when the volumetric water content function is causing the convergence problem is to
alter the time steps. Smaller time steps can sometimes help to bring about convergence. Refinement of the mesh in
areas of steep hydraulic gradients can also help to reduce convergence problems. Note that a small time step should
also be accompanied by a fine mesh. The worst possible combination in a transient analysis is a small time step with
a coarse mesh.
Unnatural Boundary Conditions

Unnatural boundary conditions can also lead to convergence problems. For example, consider the case of filling a
reservoir. Often, the reservoir is assumed to have been filled instantaneously. By modelling it this way, the initial
flow gradients are so high that it can be difficult to get a solution. Applying a more realistic boundary condition that
fills the reservoir over time can reduce convergence problems. Having unrealistic initial conditions in a transient
analysis may also lead to convergence problems.
123 GeoStudio
In general, you should not try to model situations that cannot occur in reality.
Transmissivity and Storativity

Transmissivity, storativity, and specific storage are terms commonly used to describe the characteristics of
groundwater aquifers. These terms have a comparable parameter in Seep3D which makes it possible to use Seep3D
to analyze the behavior of groundwater aquifers.
The storativity, (storage coefficient), S is defined as:
S = Ss b
where Ss is the specific storage and b is the thickness of a confined aquifer.
The specific storage is defined as:
where:
= water density
g = gravitational constant
= compressibility of the aquifer
n = porosity
= compressibility of the water
Specific storage is identical to the term in Seep3D terminology.
Therefore,
In Seep3D, the term mw is the parameter that represents the compressibility of the system due to a change in pore-
water pressure.
The transmissivity T of a confined aquifer is defined as:
T = Kb, or
where:
b = aquifer thickness
124 Seep3D
K = hydraulic conductivity
If the transmissivity and the thickness are known, the appropriate hydraulic conductivity value (K) can be
established for a Seep3D analysis.
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Verification
This section presents the analyses of some common problems for which there are closed form or published
solutions. The purpose of presenting these analyses is to:
• Provide benchmark references, which can be used to verify that the software is functioning properly.
• Illustrate the use of Seep3D and demonstrate that the software simulates a specific problem.
For each of the following verification problems, the three-dimensional solution from Seep3D are first compared
with the closed form or published solutions and then the two-dimensional solution from SEEP/W. The data input
files and computed output files for each problem are included with the Seep3D software in the Verifications folder.
The files can be used to re-run each analysis and to verify that you can obtain the same results as presented in this
section.
Foundation Cutoff Seepage

The first figure presents a flow net solution for seepage flow in the foundation of a concrete dam with a cutoff wall
as presented by Lambe and Whitman, 1969, p. 272. The hydraulic conductivity of the homogeneous foundation
material is 1x10-3 feet/min and the dimensions of the problem are as shown in the second figure.
Foundation Cutoff Problem
Based on the flow net solution, the seepage under the dam is 5.76x10-3 ft3/min/ft, the uplift pressure at the
downstream toe, (Point A), is 7.1 feet, and the exit gradient is 0.34.
The steady state seepage of the above foundation cutoff problem has been analyzed using SEEP/W. The finite
element mesh used for the analysis is shown in the following figure. Note the use of infinite elements on the left and
right vertical boundaries. The boundary nodes of the upstream and downstream surfaces are designed as head
126 Seep3D
boundaries with total head equals to 60 feet and 40 feet respectively. Default boundary conditions (no flow) are
assumed for all other boundaries.
SEEP/W Mesh for Dam Foundation Cutoff
SEEP/W Computed Head Distribution and Flow Vectors for Dam Foundation Cutoff
The figure above presents the SEEP/W computed head distribution and flow vectors. There are 15 contours at
intervals of 1.429, beginning at a minimum value of 40. The number of contours is the same as the number of
equipotential lines in the original flow net. The equipotential lines and SEEP/W head contours are essentially the
same.
The following figure illustrates the three-dimensional mesh generated by Seep3D. The width of the problem is
assumed to be 40 feet. Please note that infinite elements are not available in the current version of Seep3D. The
project file name of this verification example problem is 3D_CUTOFF. The figure illustrates the computed total
head contours on the hull of the problem. There are 15 contours at intervals of 1.429, beginning at a minimum value
of 40. Except for the first and last equipotential lines that are different due to the absence of infinite elements, the
total head contours lines computed by Seep3D are essentially the same as those shown in the flow net and computed
by SEEP/W.
127 GeoStudio
Seep3D Mesh for Dam Foundation Cutoff
Seep3D Computed Head Distribution for Dam Foundation Cutoff
The total seepage through the 40 ft. foundation is 226.87 ft3/min. When converted to seepage per unit width, the
computed seepage from Seep3D is 5.67x10-3 ft3/min/ft. The following table compares the Seep3D results with flow
net and SEEP/W results. For all practical purposes, the results can be considered to be the same.
Comparison of Seep3D Results with Flow Net and SEEP/W Results
Item Seep3D Flow Net SEEP/W

Total Seepage per unit width (ft3/min/ft) 5.67x10-3 5.76x10-3 5.81x10-3
Uplift Pressure Head at A (ft) 6.97 7.1 6.91
Exit Gradient at Downstream Toe 0.35 0.34 0.33
Earth Dam Seepage

The following figure (a) shows the flow net for seepage through a homogeneous earth dam with a rock toe drain as
published by Lambe and Whitman, 1969, p. 273. The hydraulic conductivity is 5x10-4 ft3/sec. The dimensions of the
problem are as shown in figure (b).
128 Seep3D
Earth Dam Seepage Analysis
The steady state seepage through the unconfined earth dam is analyzed using SEEP/W. The finite element mesh
used for the analysis is shown in the following figure. The mesh includes higher-order eight-noded elements near the
toe. The upstream boundary nodes are designated as head boundaries with total head equals to the water level in the
reservoir (40 feet). The bottom node along the contact between the dam and toe drain is designed as a zero pressure
head boundary. The other nodes along the contact are designated as review nodes (by elevation), since the seepage
exit point is unknown. Default boundary conditions (no flow) are assumed for all other boundaries.
SEEP/W Mesh for Earth Dam Seepage

129 GeoStudio
The saturated hydraulic conductivity is 5x10-4 feet/sec, which is the value used by Lambe and Whitman. An
approximate conductivity function is adopted for the unsaturated soil region. The data points are given in the
following table and graphed by SEEP/W in the following figure.
Point Pressure (psf) Conductivity (feet/sec)

1 -835.42 5.00x10-8
2 -584.70 1.00x10-7
3 -383.38 6.00x10-7
4 -271.51 9.00x10-6
5 -208.85 9.03x10-5
6 -100.00 3.95x10-4
7 0.00 5.00x10-4
Approximate Conductivity Function
The following figure shows the SEEP/W results with contours of equal head. There are 10 contours at intervals of
4.445 and beginning at a minimum value of 0. The number of contours in the figure is the same as the number of
equipotential lines in the flow net, and the head loss in both cases is 4.445 (40/9) feet per contour. The shape and
location of the flow net equipotential lines and the SEEP/W contours are quite similar.
The total SEEP/W seepage flux is computed to be 6.76x10-3 ft3/sec/ft. This is higher than 5.9x10-3 ft3/sec/ft, the
value obtained from the flow net. The difference is largely because SEEP/W allows for the unsaturated flow.
130 Seep3D
SEEP/W Computed Head Distribution for Earth Dam Seepage
The earth dam problem is simulated using Seep3D. The width of the earth dam is assumed to be 20 feet. The
following figure illustrates the generated three-dimensional finite element mesh. Only simple 8 noded hex elements
are used. Total head boundary equals to the elevation of the water level is specified on the upstream face, and
potential seepage face is specified on the interface of the toe drain. The project file name of this verification example
problem is 3D_DAM.
The next figure illustrates the computed total head contours at the hull of the model and steady state piezometric
surface. The calculated total flux quantity through the earth dam is 1.3608x10-1 ft3/sec or 6.80x10-3 ft3/sec per unit
width. Please note that the equipotential lines, piezometric surface and flux quantity given by Seep3D compares
satisfactory to the flow net solution as well as the SEEP/W solution.
Three-dimensional Finite Element Mesh for Earth Dam Seepage
Three-dimensional Contours and Piezometric Surface for Earth Dam Seepage

131 GeoStudio
Layered Slope Infiltration

Rulon and Freeze, 1985, pp. 347-356, have studied the development of multiple seepage faces on earth slopes due to
a layered soil system. To verify their theory, a physical model was constructed in the laboratory. The following
figure shows a schematic diagram of the physical model. Water was sprinkled on the upper flat part to simulate rain,
and instruments were installed to measure the pore-water pressure distribution and to measure the total seepage
outflow. In addition, Rulon used a finite element analysis to predict the model performance, the second figure
summarizes the results. The model developed two seepage exit points on the slope. The observed results compared
favorably with the predicted performance.
Schematic Diagram of Rulon and Freeze Model
Experimental and Finite Element Results Obtained by Rulon and Freeze
Rulon used laboratory tests to establish the hydraulic conductivity function for a medium sand. A summary of the
results is shown in the following figure. The function was then moved vertically to match a desired saturated
hydraulic conductivity. Laboratory tests were conducted to measure the saturated hydraulic conductivity for the
medium and fine sands used in the physical model. The best-fit values were found to be 1.4x10-3 m/sec for the
medium sand and 5.5x10-5 m/sec for the fine sand. The figure also shows the corresponding hydraulic conductivity
functions used in the SEEP/W analysis.
132 Seep3D
Hydraulic Conductivity Functions
Results of the physical model testing revealed that a simulated rainfall rate of 1.26 cm/min (2.1x10-4 m/sec)
produced a steady state water table as shown above with an observed seepage flow of 996 cm3/min. (1.66x10-5
m3/sec).
A steady state SEEP/W analysis of the Rulon and Freeze model leads to essentially the same results as observed in
the laboratory and predicted by the Rulon and Freeze finite element analysis.
The following figure illustrates the finite element mesh used to analyze the Rulon and Freeze model. Head boundary
conditions are specified at the toe of the slope to simulate the standing water at a level of 0.3m. The nodes along the
rest of the slope are specified as review nodes (by maximum pressure). The nodes along the top of the slope are
specified as flux boundary equals to the infiltration rate. Default boundary conditions (no flow) are assumed for all
other boundaries.
SEEP/W Mesh for Slope Infiltration
The next figure shows the SEEP/W computed water table and equipotential lines. There are 14 contours at intervals
of 0.05 and beginning at a minimum value of 0.35. The next figure shows the water table together with the flow
vectors. Comparison of these figures with results obtained by Rulon and Freeze reveals that the position of the water
table as predicted by SEEP/W is the same as in Rulon's physical model.
The length of the upper flat part of the model is 0.84m (2.44m - 1.60m) and the width is 0.1m. The surface area is
0.084m2. The rainfall rate is 2.1x10-4 m/sec. This rate multiplied by the area is 1.764x10-5 m3/sec, which is equal to
the computed value for Flux Section 1, as displayed on the drawing.
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SEEP/W Computed Head Distribution for Slope Infiltration
A steady state analysis of the Rulon and Freeze model is also done using Seep3D. The project file is called
3D_SANDBOX.
The following figure illustrates the Seep3D finite element mesh. For presentation purposes, the width of the problem
is modeled as 2m instead of the 0.1m used in the originally model. The second figure shows the Seep3D computed
water table and total head contours at the hull of the model. Comparison of these figures with the figures above
reveals that the position of the water table as predicted by Seep3D is the same as in Rulon's physical model as well
as the solution computed by SEEP/W.
The total flux quantity calculated from Seep3D is 3.528x10-4 m3/sec which is exactly equal to applied surface flux of
1.764x10-5 m3/sec when accounted for the 2m width in the three-dimensional model.
Seep3D Mesh for Slope Infiltration

134 Seep3D
Seep3D Computed Head Distribution for Slope Infiltration
Radial Flow to a Well

Closed form solutions are available for predicting the drawdown of the piezometric surfaces resulting from flow to a
well in a horizontal confined aquifer (see Freeze and Cherry, 1979, pp. 316-318). If the aquifer properties T
(transmissivity), S (storativity), and Q (pumping rate) are known, it is possible to predict the drawdown at any
distance from the well at any time after the start of pumping.
The drawdown (h0-h) is defined by the following equations, known as the Theis Solution:
where:
Q = pumping rate
T = transmissivity
W(u) = well function
r = distance from well axis
t = pumping time
S = storativity
The following figure illustrates the problem selected for this verification example. The aquifer is 5m thick and the
total hydraulic head in the aquifer is 16m. The aquifer has a storativity of 0.05 and a transmissivity of 0.010m2/sec.
The well screen is 0.3m in diameter (0.15m radius) and extends over the entire depth of the aquifer. The pumping
rate Q is assumed to be 0.125 m3/sec. The initial water table is assumed to be 16.0m above the bottom of the aquifer.
135 GeoStudio
Pumping from a Confined Aquifer
The radial flow problem was modelled with the axisymmetric feature of SEEP/W and Seep3D. Both SEEP/W and
Seep3D use the term mw which is the slope of the volumetric water content curve (or the soil-moisture characteristic
curve) to represent the storativity of a material. The value of mw (slope of the storage curve) corresponding to a
storativity S of 0.05 can be calculated as below:
Ss = S / b
Ss = 0.05 / 5 = 0.01 m-1
mw = 0.01 / 9.81 = 0.001 kPa-1
SEEP/W and Seep3D use hydraulic conductivity rather than transmissivity. The hydraulic conductivity
corresponding to a transmissivity of 0.010m2/sec in a 5m thick aquifer can be calculated as below:
k=T/b
k = 0.010 / 5 = 0.002 m/sec
The project file for this transient analysis is 3D_Well. The first figure shows the three-dimensional finite element
mesh used to model the problem and the resulting total head contours of the piezometric surface at time step 10
(elapsed time at 3970 seconds). The graph shows the computed Seep3D drawdown curves at times of 30, 150, 630
and 3970 seconds after the start of pumping and the table shows the comparison between the predicted total head
values at two locations between Seep3D and the SEEP/W solution.
136 Seep3D
Three-dimensional Finite Element Mesh for Radial Flow to a Well
Total Head Contours of the Piezometric Surface at time step 10
Seep3D Drawdown Curves at Different Times

137 GeoStudio
Comparison of Seep3D Results with Theis Solution and SEEP/W Results
Elapsed Time Head 4m from Well Head 20m from Well

(seconds) Theis Seep3D SEEP/W Theis Seep3D SEEP/W
10 15.9 15.94 15.91 16.0 16.00 16.0
30 15.7 15.70 15.62 16.0 16.00 16.0

70 15.1 15.25 15.14 16.0 16.00 16.0
150 14.6 14.67 14.55 16.0 15.98 15.98
310 13.9 14.02 13.91 15.9 15.90 15.90

630 13.1 13.35 13.24 15.7 15.70 15.69
127 12.5 12.68 12.57 15.3 15.37 15.34
217 11.9 12.18 12.03 14.9 15.05 14.98
3070 11.7 11.88 11.67 14.6 14.85 14.85
3970 11.3 11.69 11.39 14.3 14.72 14.46
The agreement between the Seep3D results to the closed form solution and SEEP/W is very good, especially
considering the limited accuracy with which the well function values W(u) can be ascertained from tables. The small
difference between SEEP/W and Seep3D results are due to the fact that infinite elements are used in SEEP/W, and
consistent mass formulation is adopted in SEEP/W. Seep3D does not have infinite elements in the present version
and lumped mass formulation is adopted.
This example illustrates that Seep3D can be used to analyze radial flow to a well in terms of the water well industry
parameters of transmissivity and storativity.
Consolidation Analysis
It is possible to use Seep3D to perform a consolidation analysis, since the Terzaghi consolidation equation is
fundamentally identical to the Seep3D governing differential equation. Moreover, since closed form solutions are
available for the consolidation equation, it is also possible to check the transient capability of Seep3D by comparing
hand-computed results for a one-dimensional consolidation problem with Seep3D results.
Setup and material properties for a one-dimensional consolidation analysis.
Drainage is allowed only at the top of the soil layer.

138 Seep3D
In accordance with the Terzaghi theory of consolidation, the dimensionless time factor T and the real time t can be
related as follows:
where:
H = maximum drainage path
T = non-dimensional time factor
cv = coefficient of consolidation
Using the equation above and commonly available graphical charts, (see Lambe and Whitman, 1969, p. 408), the
time t required to reach a certain degree of consolidation can be computed for a given time factor T.
Also, the hydraulic conductivity (or coefficient of permeability) of the material can be calculated as:
where mw is the coefficient of volume change or, in SEEP/W and Seep3D terminology, the slope of the soil-water
characteristic curve.
The above one-dimensional consolidation process is simulated with Seep3D. The following figure shows the finite
element mesh of the three-dimension column. The associated file is named 3D_CONSOL. The initial excess pore-
water pressure head is assumed to be 100m through out entire column. The initial condition is obtained by doing a
steady state analysis of the column with total head boundary conditions of 101m on the top nodes and 100m on the
bottom nodes of the column.
Three-dimensional Column used for Consolidation Analysis

139 GeoStudio
The following figure shows the form of the excess head dissipation curves as determined by Seep3D. The form of
the curves is the same as commonly published graphical solutions for Terzaghi's equation. A close agreement can be
observed between the Seep3D and the closed-form solution.
Consolidation Analysis Results from Seep3D
The following table presents the comparison of the resulting excess head at mid-height and at the bottom of the
layer. Good agreement is observed between Seep3D solution, Terzaghi's closed-form solution and SEEP/W solution.
Small differences are observed between SEEP/W (Version 4) and Seep3D in the computed pressure heads especially
in larger elapsed times. The small differences are due to the fact that lumped mass formulation rather than consistent
mass formulation is used in Seep3D. Note that results from Seep3D are closer to the closed form solutions than
those from SEEP/W.
140 Seep3D
Comparison of Predicted Pressure Head at Different Times between the Closed-Form Solution,
SEEP/W Solution and Seep3D Solution
T t (hours) Pressure Head at Mid-Height Pressure Head at Bottom
Closed- Seep3D SEEP/W Closed- Seep3D SEEP/W

Form Form
Solution Solution
0.05 100 88 89.15 89.20 99 97.91 97.93
0.10 200 74 76.84 76.88 95 92.89 92.93

0.15 300 64 66.46 66.48 86 85.98 86.02
0.20 400 55 58.07 58.08 77 78.31 78.34
0.30 600 42 45.30 45.98 60 63.41 64.01

0.40 800 33 35.81 36.74 47 50.72 51.85
0.50 1000 26 28.43 29.49 37 40.45 41.87
0.60 1200 20 22.62 23.73 29 32.27 33.81
0.70 1400 15 18.02 19.12 22 25.78 27.32
Reservoir Clay Liner

A common technique for reducing the seepage loss from a reservoir is to line the reservoir with a clay blanket. The
problem is challenging to analyze because of the sharp contrast in the saturated hydraulic conductivity of the clay
blanket and that of the underlying material; as well, the underlying material is often sandy with a very steep
hydraulic conductivity function.
Kisch, 1959, (pp. 9-21), studied this problem and developed closed form solutions. Hydraulic conductivity data was
obtained for a Yalo Light Clay and for a Superstition Sand. These functions are presented in the first figure below.
Kisch's work indicated that the pore-water pressure distribution in the clay blanket and in the underlying sand is as
illustrated in the second figure below. When the water level in the pond is at the surface of the clay blanket, the flow
through the system is in an unsaturated state down to a water table in the sand. The pore-water pressure decreases
sharply at the clay-sand contact and remains at a constant value down to the capillary zone in the sand.
141 GeoStudio
Hydraulic Conductivity Functions for Yalo Light Clay and Superstition Sand
The Kisch Negative Pore-Water Pressure Distribution Beneath a Clay-Blanketed Reservoir

(Kisch, 1959)
142 Seep3D
Seep3D is capable of computing the negative pore-water pressure distribution as predicted by Kisch. The data file
for this verification example is named 3D_KISCH.
To obtain a solution to this highly non-linear problem, it is necessary to use many iterations and control the change
in hydraulic conductivity from one iteration to the next iteration. The iteration scheme incorporated in Seep3D
allows you specify how the hydraulic conductivity should be changed. The following table gives the convergence
parameter values specified for this example.
Specified Convergence Parameters
Convergence Parameter Value

Maximum number of iterations 300
Convergence tolerance(%) 0.001

Maximum conductivity change (orders of magnitude) 1.0
Rate of conductivity change 1.1
Minimum conductivity change (orders of magnitude) 0.0001
The following figure shows the results of a SEEP/W analysis. The form and shape of the pore-water pressure
distribution is the same as the closed-form solution predicted by Kisch. The SEEP/W distribution is slightly more
gradual in the transition zone between the clay and sand interface than Kisch's prediction. This difference is minor,
however, considering the extreme non-linearity of the flow system due to the steep hydraulic conductivity function
of the sand.
The next figure shows the results of the Seep3D analysis. The form and shape of the pore-water pressure distribution
is the same as the closed-form solution predicted by Kisch and the SEEP/W solution. Once again, it indicates that
Seep3D is formulated accurately for solving saturated and unsaturated soil systems.
The SEEP/W Computed Negative Pore-Water Pressure Distribution

143 GeoStudio
The Seep3D Computed Negative Pore-Water Pressure Distribution

144 Seep3D
Unsaturated Hydraulic Conductivity

Analyzing saturated-unsaturated seepage processes requires establishing the hydraulic conductivity versus pore-
water pressure relationship. The purpose of this section is to introduce the Seep3D user to published information on
the subject and to briefly discuss documented procedures for establishing this type of function.
Direct Measurement
The hydraulic conductivity versus pore-water pressure relationship can be established directly from laboratory
measurements. This involves measuring the hydraulic conductivity of soil samples at various negative pore-water
pressure levels.
The techniques for measuring unsaturated hydraulic conductivity have been documented by Klute, 1965, pp. 253-
261. This document describes the fundamentals of the equipment and procedures involved. Another paper on the
subject has been presented by Corey, 1957, pp. 7-10. Hillel, 1990, discusses the measurement of unsaturated
hydraulic conductivity in situ.
Making measurements of unsaturated hydraulic conductivity is a fairly complex and involved task. Difficulties
associated with the measurements have been discussed by Brooks and Corey, 1966, and Green and Corey, 1971, pp.
3-8. The difficulties are generally related to problems with air diffusion and measuring small flow quantities.
145 GeoStudio
Predictive Method
The difficult task of measuring the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity directly is often overcome by predicting the
unsaturated hydraulic conductivity from a soil-water characteristic functions, such as illustrated in the following
figure. Establishing the soil-water characteristic function is a relatively simple operation compared to making direct
measurements of the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity. Consequently, this is the preferred approach if a suitable
predictive model is available.
Volumetric Water Content vs. Pore-Water Pressure
A method for predicting unsaturated hydraulic conductivity from soil-water characteristic functions has been
presented by Green and Corey, 1971, pp. 3-8. Green and Corey concluded that their method is sufficiently accurate
for most field applications. Elzeftawy and Cartwright, 1981 compared measured unsaturated coefficients of
permeabilities for various soils with predicted values using the Green and Corey method and reached the same
conclusion.
The Green and Corey equation is:
where:
= the calculated conductivity for a specified water content or negative pore-water pressure (cm/min)
= the matching factor (measured saturated conductivity / calculated saturated conductivity)

146 Seep3D
i = the last water content class on the wet end. e.g. i=1 identifies the pore class corresponding to the lowest
water content, and i=m identifies the pore class corresponding to the saturated water content
hi = negative pore-water pressure head for a given class of water-filled pores (cm of water)
n = total number of pore classes between and
= water content (cm3/cm3)
= lowest water content on the experimental curve
= saturated water content (cm3/cm3)
T = surface tension of water (Dyn/cm)
= water-saturated porosity
= viscosity of water (g/cm os-1)
g = the gravitational constant (cm/s-1)
= density of water (g/cm3)
p = a parameter that accounts for the interaction of pore classes
The following are some suggested values of p given by various authors:
Author p
Marshall, 1958 2.0
Millington and Quirk, 1961, pp. 1200-1207 1.3

Kunze, Vehara and Graham, 1968 1.0
The shape of the conductivity function is controlled by the term : in Green and Corey
equation. The term is a constant for a particular function and can be taken to be 1.0 when
determining the shape of the hydraulic conductivity function. This is the assumption made in Seep3D.
Seep3D first computes the hydraulic conductivity at the zero pressure value using the equation,
The saturated conductivity ks is a user-defined value in Seep3D. When ks is specified, the entire conductivity
function is moved up or down by a constant ratio of ks /ksc.
147 GeoStudio
In summary, Seep3D uses the Green and Corey equation to estimate the shape of the conductivity function and then
moves the curve up or down so that the function passes through the user-specified value of ks.
Measurement of Water Content Function

The water content of soil at a particular negative pore-water pressure can be measured with a commercially available
apparatus known as a TEMPE Pressure Cell. This cell is manufactured and marketed by Soilmoisture Equipment
Corp. in Santa Barbara, California, USA. The following figure shows a schematic diagram of the cell.
Schematic Cross Section View of a TEMPE Pressure Cell
The inside base of the cell consists of a porous ceramic plate which acts like a semi-permeable membrane. Up to a
certain pressure, water but not air will flow through the plate. This allows water to drain out of, or enter into, a soil
sample in the cell. Increases in air pressures will lead to decreases in water content and vice versa. The water content
versus negative pore-water pressure relationship can consequently be determined by allowing the soil moisture
conditions to come to equilibrium at various cell pressures.
The water contents can be established by weighing the entire cell after reaching equilibrium conditions at each
pressure level. Changes in the cell weight together with the dry weight of the sample as measured at the end of the
test can be used to compute the water content at the various applied pressures.
Example Material Property Functions

A collection of seven volumetric water content and hydraulic conductivity functions are presented. The functions are
representative of soils varying from uniform sand to clayey silt. The volumetric water content functions are taken
from published literature, and the hydraulic conductivity functions are estimated using the above predictive method
proposed by Green and Corey. In some cases, the hydraulic conductivity functions were slightly adjusted from the
estimated data points in order to create a smooth function.
These example functions are provided to help you define functions when you do not have any other data. As
discussed in the modelling guidelines section, using an approximate function leads to more realistic results than
using a single-value function when the problem includes unsaturated flow.
The following sections present information about the seven different soils, as well as graphs of the corresponding
hydraulic conductivity and volumetric water content functions. Only the metric versions of the functions are
presented in this section. The hydraulic conductivity is in m/sec and the pressure is in kPa.
148 Seep3D
Uniform Sand
Author: Swanson, 1991
Saturated Conductivity: 1X10-4 m/sec
Porosity: 0.35
Percentage Sand: 95%

D10: 0.1 mm
149 GeoStudio
Sand
Author: Ho, 1979
Saturated Conductivity: 5.4X10-5 m/sec
Porosity: 0.39
150 Seep3D
151 GeoStudio
Fine Sand
Author: Bruch, 1993
Porosity: 0.35

D10: 0.093 mm
152 Seep3D
Silt
Author: Ho, 1979
Porosity: 0.38
153 GeoStudio
154 Seep3D
Silt (Tailings)
Author: Gonzalez and Adams, 1980
Porosity: 0.30
155 GeoStudio
Sandy Clayey Silt

Author: Huang, 1994
Porosity: 0.35
Percentage Silt: 38%
Percentage Clay: 10%
156 Seep3D
157 GeoStudio
Clayey Silt
Author: Bruch, 1993
Porosity: 0.41
Percentage Silt: 93%

Percentage Clay: 7%
D10: 0.003 mm
158 Seep3D
159 GeoStudio
Index
3
3D .......................................... 7, 17, 22, 24, 26, 52, 54, 56, 57, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79
3D analysis.................................................................................................................................. 7, 68
3D Controls............................................................................................................................... 52, 56
3D Controls Window ................................................................................................................ 54, 56
3D Region View ....................................................................................................................... 17, 56
3D Results View ................................................................................................52, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79
3D View............................................................... 7, 17, 22, 24, 26, 52, 54, 56, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73
3D View Commands....................................................................................................................... 54
3D View Window ..........................................................................................................52, 54, 56, 69
clipboard ............................................................................................................................ 52, 54
plane ........................................................................................................................................ 54
respect...................................................................................................................................... 56
Rotates ..................................................................................................................................... 69
3D Window..................................................................................................................................... 52
center ....................................................................................................................................... 54
clipboard .................................................................................................................................. 52
create........................................................................................................................................ 57
form ......................................................................................................................................... 68
A
A Project ............................................................................................................................. 54, 57, 59
A project contains ........................................................................................................................... 57
A Project File .................................................................................................................................. 57
About ...................................................................................................25, 41, 43, 47, 50, 52, 79, 102
About advanced .............................................................................................................................. 47
About the Help system.................................................................................................................... 41
Help system ............................................................................................................................. 41
Help Viewer............................................................................................................................. 41
Absolute.......................................................................................................................................... 22
Acceptable Performance Region................................................................................................... 108
Accessibility........................................................................................................................ 43, 46, 50
Accessibility dialog......................................................................................................................... 50
accessibility options .................................................................................................................. 43, 46
Accessibility Properties dialog........................................................................................................ 46
open ......................................................................................................................................... 46
styles ........................................................................................................................................ 50
Active Analysis............................................................................................................................... 34
Add Point ........................................................................................................................................ 26
Adding ............................................................................................................................................ 42
adding topics to Favorites ............................................................................................................... 42
Advanced ............................................................................................................................ 47, 48, 59
Analyses.................................................................................................7, 54, 59, 102, 111, 113, 120
Analysis7, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 70, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 83, 92, 95, 106, 109, 111, 113, 115, 119, 123
Analysis Commands ....................................................................................................................... 59
Analysis Property Sheet.................................................................................................................. 59
AND.................................................................................................................................... 47, 48, 49
AND operator ................................................................................................................................. 48
Appendix................................................................................................................................... 83, 84
Applications .....................................................................................................................7, 76, 77, 79
Applied ............................................................................................................................... 26, 30, 34
Applying ............................................................................................................................. 26, 30, 34
160 Seep3D
BC............................................................................................................................................ 26
Material.............................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Arcball ............................................................................................................................................ 56
Arrange Icons.................................................................................................................................. 52
ASCII.............................................................................................................................................. 57
Attach.............................................................................17, 22, 59, 62, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 76, 77, 79
Auto Calculate ................................................................................................................................ 52
Auto-update .................................................................................................................................... 26
B
Back button ..................................................................................................................................... 43
background color
changing................................................................................................................................... 51
Backward Difference Method......................................................................................................... 95
Basic rules................................................................................................................................. 47, 49
Basic Solution Requirements ........................................................................................................ 110
Basics...................................................................................................................41, 47, 49, 104, 110
BC ....................................................................................................................................... 26, 59, 62
BC locations.............................................................................................................................. 26, 59
BC Locations Page.......................................................................................................................... 59
BCs ..........................................................................................................................30, 69, 70, 71, 72
BC's................................................................................................................................................. 34
applying ................................................................................................................................... 26
delete........................................................................................................................................ 62
edge.......................................................................................................................................... 26
Select ....................................................................................................................................... 34
BCs Page........................................................................................................................69, 70, 71, 72
Best Performance Region ............................................................................................................. 108
boolean operators...................................................................................................................... 47, 48
Botton ....................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Boundary Condition Commands..................................................................................................... 62
Boundary condition contains .........................................................................................69, 70, 71, 72
Boundary Condition Properties........................................................................................... 26, 30, 62
Boundary Conditions7, 26, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 106, 110, 115, 119, 120
Boundary Conditions Object....................................................................................30, 34, 57, 59, 62
Boundary Conditions Property Sheet.................................................................................. 26, 30, 62
Boundary Conditions View....................................................................................................... 26, 62
Boundary Conditions View allowing.............................................................................................. 26
Boundary Functions dialog ........................................................................................................... 115
Box appears......................................................................................................................... 59, 62, 67
Box containing.................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
browsing the contents or index ....................................................................................................... 42
C
cancel downloading a Web page..................................................................................................... 41
case sensitivity of searches ............................................................................................................. 47
Catalog View ...................................................................................................................... 17, 56, 68
Catalog Window ..................................................................................................7, 17, 30, 34, 52, 56
Catalog Window Commands .......................................................................................................... 56
Catalog Window contains ............................................................................................................... 56
Center.......................................................................................................................17, 22, 26, 54, 79
3D ............................................................................................................................................ 54
Change7, 17, 26, 30, 34, 43, 50, 51, 52, 56, 57, 59, 62, 67, 70, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 83, 100, 106, 111, 113, 115,
123
Change colors ..................................................................................................................... 26, 34, 51
161 GeoStudio
Change during............................................................................................................................... 100

Change formatting .......................................................................................................................... 50
Change Microsoft Internet Explorer ............................................................................................... 43
font size.................................................................................................................................... 50
character size
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
Characteristics................................................................................................................... 83, 95, 123
describe.................................................................................................................................. 123
Check ....................................................................... 26, 30, 34, 43, 46, 48, 49, 50, 59, 73, 76, 77, 79
Display Contours ..................................................................................................................... 30
Non-linear checkbox.......................................................................................................... 30, 34
Checkbox ........................................................................................................................................ 59
selecting ................................................................................................................................... 59
Cherry ........................................................................................................................................... 115
Choose Display Flux................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Choosing ........................................................................................................................30, 34, 67, 70
Connect.................................................................................................................................... 34
Edit .................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Mesh View......................................................................................................................... 67, 70
Transient .................................................................................................................................. 34
Clay......................................................................................................................30, 34, 83, 109, 111
Clay Core ...................................................................................................................................... 109
Clicking........................................................................................................................................... 46
Start.......................................................................................................................................... 46
Clipboard .........................................................................................17, 34, 42, 52, 54, 62, 76, 77, 79
3D View................................................................................................................................... 52
3D View Window .................................................................................................................... 54
3D Window.............................................................................................................................. 52
Close .................................................................. 17, 30, 34, 42, 43, 46, 49, 52, 57, 62, 72, 76, 77, 79
Close All ......................................................................................................................................... 46
Graph window ............................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
Properties ........................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Property Sheet.................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Time Steps dialog .................................................................................................................... 34
closing the navigation pane............................................................................................................. 43
Coef................................................................................................................................................. 34
collecting favorite help topics ......................................................................................................... 42
Color back....................................................................................................................................... 73
colored underlined text ................................................................................................................... 41
colors
changing................................................................................................................................... 51
isosurface .............................................................................................................................................. 81
Colors.........................................................................................26, 30, 51, 52, 62, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81

Colors dialog................................................................................................................................... 51
Colour ............................................................................................................................................. 34
set............................................................................................................................................. 34
comma............................................................................................................................................. 47
command help................................................................................................................................. 42
Complete................................................................................................7, 17, 30, 41, 57, 59, 79, 111
Complete list ................................................................................................................................... 57
GeoStudio Tree View contains ................................................................................................ 57
Compressed Row Storage ............................................................................................................. 102
Compressibility................................................................................................................. 34, 83, 123
one-dimensional....................................................................................................................... 83
Conductivity...................................................................................30, 34, 57, 59, 106, 109, 111, 113
162 Seep3D
Conductivity Change ...................................................................................................................... 59

Conductivity Change Properties ..................................................................................................... 59
Rate.......................................................................................................................................... 59
Conductivity Function .......................................................................................30, 34, 106, 109, 111
Conductivity Function Requirements ........................................................................................... 111
Select ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Configuration ................................................................................................................................ 111
Connect ........................................................................................7, 22, 34, 67, 68, 69, 71, 76, 77, 79
Choose ..................................................................................................................................... 34
hiding or showing .................................................................................................................... 43
searching for words in titles..................................................................................................... 49
table ..................................................................................................................42, 43, 46, 49, 52
using to find help topics........................................................................................................... 42
context-sensitive help...................................................................................................................... 42
Contour shading.............................................................................................................................. 73
Contour shading color..................................................................................................................... 73
Contours...........................................................................................7, 30, 34, 52, 73, 79, 81, 82, 106
Contours Page ................................................................................................................................. 73
Control .....................................................................................22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 34, 46, 49, 62, 115
Control NOT ................................................................................................................................... 49
Control Panel .................................................................................................................................. 46
Controls ignore ............................................................................................................................... 26
Convergence Criteria Properties ..................................................................................................... 59
Convergence Page........................................................................................................................... 59
Coordiantes ..................................................................................................................................... 30
Copy...............................................................................................................7, 42, 52, 62, 76, 77, 79
Copy button ........................................................................................................................ 76, 77, 79
help topic ................................................................................................................................. 42
select ............................................................................................................................ 76, 77, 79
Corey............................................................................................................................................... 84
Create7, 17, 26, 30, 34, 42, 47, 49, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 109
3D ............................................................................................................................................ 57
Hull Contour ............................................................................................................................ 73
Region................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Solid Regions........................................................................................................................... 68
Cross-sectional.............................................................................................................................. 103
CTRL key ................................................................................................................17, 24, 54, 68, 69
Hold ......................................................................................................................................... 68
Current .........................................................................................................34, 42, 52, 57, 59, 62, 73
Current Analysis ................................................................................................34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 73
Current Analysis menu ................................................................................................................... 34
Current Analysis provides............................................................................................................... 59
Current help topic ........................................................................................................................... 42
Current Time Steps ............................................................................................................. 34, 52, 73
Curve Properties ....................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Keep................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
open ......................................................................................................................................... 34
Curve Segments ...................................................................................................................... 62, 105
Curve segments approach ............................................................................................................... 62
Customize ................................................................................................................................. 46, 50
Customize Information Wizard....................................................................................................... 46
Help Viewer............................................................................................................................. 50
Opens ....................................................................................................................................... 46
customizing the help system ........................................................................................................... 50
customizing the Help Viewer.......................................................................................................... 50
163 GeoStudio
D
Dam............................................................................................................30, 34, 106, 109, 113, 119
Darcian.................................................................................................................................... 85, 103
Darcy's Law .............................................................................................................................. 85, 92
Data........................................................................................7, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 73, 76, 77, 79
Data Page ............................................................................................................................ 76, 77, 79
Data Properties.................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
Data Table........................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
Fit............................................................................................................................................. 62
select ........................................................................................................................................ 76
Days Remaining Until Expiry......................................................................................................... 57
default operator ............................................................................................................................... 48
Define .............. 7, 26, 30, 34, 47, 48, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 79, 83, 92, 106, 111, 113, 115, 123
Define a problem ...................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Effect ..................................................................................................................................... 111
Grid Spacing ...................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Transient .................................................................................................................................. 59
Defining a Problem ......................................................................................................................... 30
Delete......................................................................... 7, 17, 26, 52, 59, 62, 68, 71, 73, 76, 77, 79, 82
Delete key ................................................................................................................................. 62, 68
pressing.............................................................................................................................. 62, 68
Delete Point..................................................................................................................................... 26
Delete Row ..................................................................................................................................... 59
BC............................................................................................................................................ 62
Hull Contours .......................................................................................................................... 82
deleting topics from Favorites......................................................................................................... 42
Dependent Variable ............................................................................................................ 76, 77, 79
Derivatives .................................................................................................................86, 92, 100, 105
Interpolation Functions ............................................................................................................ 92
Desaturate ............................................................................................................................... 83, 120
Desaturates.................................................................................................................................... 111
Describe .............................................................................................17, 41, 47, 48, 50, 62, 115, 123
characteristics ........................................................................................................................ 123
Description............................................. 46, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Detail...................................................... 26, 30, 34, 57, 59, 62, 68, 69, 71, 72, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 84
Detail Page...........................................................................57, 62, 68, 69, 71, 72, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Detail Tab ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Detailed view ............................................................................................................................ 30, 34
dialog box help................................................................................................................................ 42
Differentiation................................................................................................................................. 92
Discretization ................................................................................................................................ 113
Discretized .................................................................................................................................... 102
Discretizing..................................................................................................................................... 59
Discritization................................................................................................................................. 110
Display7, 17, 22, 24, 26, 30, 34, 42, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 52, 56, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79,
81, 82
Display Contours ...........................................................................................................30, 34, 52, 79
check........................................................................................................................................ 30
select ........................................................................................................................................ 34
Display Flow Lines ............................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
Display Flux.............................................................................................................................. 34, 54
Display Vectors........................................................................................................30, 73, 76, 77, 79
Display Vectors checkboxes ........................................................................................................... 30
Favorites .................................................................................................................................. 43
Home ....................................................................................................................................... 43
164 Seep3D
Navigation pane ....................................................................................................................... 43

Options menu........................................................................................................................... 43
Displayed sequence......................................................................................................................... 43
topics........................................................................................................................................ 43
displaying favorite help topics ........................................................................................................ 42
displaying related topics ................................................................................................................. 41
displaying the navigation pane........................................................................................................ 43
displaying Web content................................................................................................................... 41
Divisions ........................................................................................................................30, 34, 67, 70
Target Number................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Documentation................................................................................................................................ 46
Domain7, 17, 25, 26, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 108, 110, 113, 115
Domain Commands ........................................................................................................................ 67
Domain Folder .......................................................................................................................... 26, 67
Domain Level Transformations ...................................................................................................... 25
Domain Object.................................................................................................................... 57, 62, 67
Domain Property Sheet ............................................................................................................. 67, 70
downloading Web content .............................................................................................................. 41
Downstream .........................................................................................30, 34, 73, 109, 111, 115, 119
Downstream Vertical Boundary.................................................................................................... 115
Specification .......................................................................................................................... 115
Drag ......................................................... 7, 17, 22, 24, 26, 30, 34, 50, 56, 68, 69, 70, 72, 76, 77, 79
Viewer ..................................................................................................................................... 50
dragging borders ............................................................................................................................. 50
Drawdown..................................................................................................................................... 119
E
Edge ........................................................... 17, 22, 24, 26, 30, 34, 50, 52, 67, 68, 70, 76, 77, 79, 115
Edge applies.................................................................................................................................... 26
Edge Translate ................................................................................................................................ 22
BC............................................................................................................................................ 26
Selecting .................................................................................................................................. 22
Edges extend ................................................................................................................................... 79
Edit............................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Edit Action...................................................................................................................................... 62
Edit Action button........................................................................................................................... 62
Edit Action Dialog Box .................................................................................................................. 62
select ........................................................................................................................................ 62
Edit Function button ....................................................................................................................... 34
Edit menu........................................................................................................................................ 42
choose ................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Effect..........................................................................................................30, 83, 106, 111, 113, 115
Defining ................................................................................................................................. 111
Element mesh...................................................................7, 26, 52, 59, 67, 68, 70, 72, 102, 106, 108
Element modelling........................................................................................................................ 106
Element Shapes............................................................................................................................. 108
Elements7, 26, 47, 52, 54, 59, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 83, 87, 90, 91, 92, 94, 95, 96, 100, 102, 103, 104, 106, 108, 110,
115, 120
performance rating................................................................................................................. 108
End Point ........................................................................................................................................ 77
enlarging the Help Viewer .............................................................................................................. 50
Equal ......................................................................................................59, 79, 81, 95, 108, 109, 115
Minimum Change .................................................................................................................... 59
Equation Solver....................................................................................................................... 59, 102
Esc .................................................................................................................................................. 48
Euclidean ...................................................................................................................................... 102
165 GeoStudio
Evapotranspiration ........................................................................................................................ 115

Excel ....................................................................................................................7, 34, 62, 76, 77, 79
Expand button ........................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Expansion Factor ...................................................................................................................... 34, 59
Expiry Date ..................................................................................................................................... 57
extensions
searching for ............................................................................................................................ 47
F
F/L2............................................................................................................................................... 106
F/L3............................................................................................................................................... 106
F1 .................................................................................................................................................... 42
F1 help ............................................................................................................................................ 42
Face................................................ 17, 22, 24, 26, 30, 34, 52, 54, 62, 67, 68, 69, 106, 108, 115, 119
Face Translate ................................................................................................................................. 22
Selecting .................................................................................................................................. 22
View Perpendicular ........................................................................................................... 54, 69
Faces during.................................................................................................................................. 119
Favorite help topics......................................................................................................................... 42
Favorites ................................................................................................................................... 42, 43
favorites list............................................................................................................................... 42, 43
Display..................................................................................................................................... 43
Features........................................................................................30, 41, 43, 47, 48, 49, 50, 105, 115
Features pertaining........................................................................................................................ 115
Field Variable Model .................................................................................................................... 91
File menu .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
File Name.......................................................................................................................30, 34, 47, 57
File.To............................................................................................................................................. 47
filenames
searching for ............................................................................................................................ 47
Find ................................................................................................................................................. 43
Find topics using............................................................................................................................. 43
toolbar buttons ......................................................................................................................... 43
Find words similar .......................................................................................................................... 49
finding information ......................................................................................................................... 48
Fine Sand ........................................................................................................................................ 83
Water Content Functions ......................................................................................................... 83
Finite Element Equations...........................................................94, 95, 102, 103, 104, 106, 108, 119
Fit...................................................................................................................................17, 26, 52, 62
Fit Curve ....................................................................................................................................... 105
Data.......................................................................................................................................... 62
Fixed Point...................................................................................................................................... 25
specify...................................................................................................................................... 25
Floating License.............................................................................................................................. 57
Flow Law ........................................................................................................................................ 85
Flow Lines Page.............................................................................................................................. 73
Flow Quantities............................................................................................................................. 104
Flowpaths........................................................................................................................................ 73
Fluctuating .................................................................................................................................... 115
Reservoir................................................................................................................................ 115
Flux ..................................................................................................30, 34, 59, 62, 73, 106, 115, 119
Flux Boundary .......................................................................................................102, 110, 115, 119
Flux dialog ................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Flux Quantities.....................................................................................................30, 34, 73, 106, 115
View .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Flux represents................................................................................................................................ 34
166 Seep3D
flux........................................................................................................................................... 34
flux represents.......................................................................................................................... 34
font size
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
change................................................................................................................................................... 50
Font size.......................................................................................................................................... 50
Fonts ......................................................................................................................................... 41, 50
formulating queries ......................................................................................................................... 47
Forward button................................................................................................................................ 43
Fredlund.......................................................................................................................................... 83
Free Point Commands..................................................................................................................... 72
Free Point Property Sheet ......................................................................................................... 26, 72
Free Points ...........................................................................................26, 52, 57, 67, 71, 72, 76, 115
Front........................................................................................................................................ 69, 111
Ft 106
Ft2/hr............................................................................................................................................. 106
Ft3 ................................................................................................................................................. 106
Full Rainbow................................................................................................................................... 73
full-text search .................................................................................................................... 43, 47, 48
Full-text search allows .................................................................................................................... 47
Function7, 17, 22, 30, 34, 62, 83, 84, 86, 87, 90, 91, 92, 94, 95, 96, 100, 102, 105, 106, 109, 111, 115, 119, 120
Function Graph ............................................................................................................................... 62
Function table ................................................................................................................................. 62
q vs......................................................................................................................................... 115
G
Galerkin .......................................................................................................................................... 94
Gauss............................................................................................................68, 69, 96, 100, 102, 103
General............................... 17, 26, 41, 43, 51, 76, 77, 79, 83, 95, 100, 102, 106, 108, 109, 111, 113
General Commands......................................................................................................................... 17
General Form .................................................................................................................................. 83
General Properties............................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
General rule..................................................................................................................................... 26
General terms.................................................................................................................................. 95
Generate....................................................................... 26, 34, 52, 59, 62, 67, 70, 72, 77, 79, 81, 108
Generate button......................................................................................................................... 34, 59
select ........................................................................................................................................ 59
Generate Time Steps Dialog Box.................................................................................................... 59
isosurface ................................................................................................................................. 81
select ........................................................................................................................................ 59
Geometry .......................................................................7, 22, 26, 30, 34, 52, 67, 72, 76, 77, 79, 106
Geometry Page.................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
GEO-SLOPE............................................................................................................................... 7, 57
GeoStudio 3D View........................................................................................................................ 57
GeoStudio Menu ............................................................................................................................. 52
GeoStudio Objects .................................................................................................................... 17, 57
GeoStudio Script Files .................................................................................................................... 57
GeoStudio Script Files contain ....................................................................................................... 57
list ............................................................................................................................................ 57
GeoStudio stores ........................................................................................................................... 102
GeoStudio Tree View ..................................................................................................................... 57
GeoStudio Tree View contains ....................................................................................................... 57
complete list............................................................................................................................. 57
GeoStudio uses ......................................................................................................................... 57, 73
Get help........................................................................................................................................... 42
167 GeoStudio
getting more out of help.................................................................................................................. 41

Global Equations........................................................................................................................... 102
Gnomon .......................................................................................................................................... 54
Governing ....................................................................................................................................... 86
Equations ................................................................................................................................. 86
Gradient reduces ........................................................................................................................... 115
Gradients................................................................................85, 92, 94, 96, 102, 103, 111, 115, 120
Gradients B ..................................................................................................................................... 92
Graph button ....................................................................................................................... 30, 34, 76
select ........................................................................................................................................ 76
Graph Properties ................................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
Graph window..................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
Graph window contains ...................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
close ............................................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
XY ............................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
Grid ..............................................................................................................26, 30, 34, 52, 73, 77, 79
Grid & Snapping....................................................................................................................... 52, 54
Grid Spacing ............................................................................................................26, 30, 34, 77, 79
Define ................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Ground Surface ..................................................................................................................... 113, 115
Ground Surface Flux..................................................................................................................... 115
grouping help topics........................................................................................................................ 50
H
Head....................................................................... 24, 30, 34, 48, 59, 73, 92, 95, 109, 111, 115, 119
Type ................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Help.................................................. 17, 41, 42, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 57, 62, 105, 106, 120
Help About...................................................................................................................................... 57
help in dialog boxes ........................................................................................................................ 42
help system
customizing.............................................................................................................................. 50
About .................................................................................................................................................... 41
Help system .............................................................................................................41, 43, 47, 50, 52

Help topic...........................................................................................................42, 43, 47, 49, 50, 52
copy ......................................................................................................................................... 42
help topics
finding...................................................................................................................................... 42
Help Topics command .................................................................................................................... 52
Help Viewer.......................................................................................................41, 43, 47, 48, 50, 51
Help Viewer customization............................................................................................................. 50
Help Viewer toolbar........................................................................................................................ 43
About ....................................................................................................................................... 41
customize ................................................................................................................................. 50
reposition ................................................................................................................................. 50
Topic pane ............................................................................................................................... 51
Help with Help................................................................................................................................ 41
Hex Element ................................................................................................................87, 90, 96, 108
Local Coordinate Systems ....................................................................................................... 87
Node Numbering System......................................................................................................... 87
Hide..................................................................................................................................... 43, 56, 59
Hide button ..................................................................................................................................... 43
hiding the navigation pane .............................................................................................................. 43
Highlight words .............................................................................................................................. 47
highlighting..................................................................................................................................... 47
Ho ................................................................................................................................................... 83
168 Seep3D
Home............................................................................................................................................... 43
Home button ................................................................................................................................... 43
home page topic
displaying................................................................................................................................. 43
displays ................................................................................................................................................. 43
Homogeneous Earth Dam ......................................................................................................... 30, 34

Homogenous ................................................................................................................................... 34
sketch ....................................................................................................................................... 34
Horizontal ..................................................................................................................56, 79, 109, 111
Horizontal portion......................................................................................................................... 109
HTML ............................................................................................................................41, 43, 47, 49
HTML files ..................................................................................................................................... 49
titles ......................................................................................................................................... 49
HTML Help ........................................................................................................................ 41, 43, 47
HTML Help Viewer.................................................................................................................. 41, 43
HTML Help Workshop................................................................................................................... 47
Hull Contour ......................................................................................................30, 34, 52, 57, 73, 82
create........................................................................................................................................ 73
deleting .................................................................................................................................... 82
View .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Hull Contours Commands............................................................................................................... 82
Hull Contours name ........................................................................................................................ 82
HullContour .................................................................................................................................... 30
Hydraulic Conductivity 59, 84, 85, 86, 94, 96, 99, 102, 103, 106, 109, 110, 111, 113, 115, 120, 123
Hydraulic Conductivity Functions .............................................................84, 99, 110, 111, 113, 120
Hydraulic Conductivity Matrix......................................................................................... 94, 99, 103
Hydraulic Conductivity Matrix Parameters .................................................................................... 99
Hydraulic conductivity needs ....................................................................................................... 111
I
IML ............................................................................................................................................... 102
Imperial......................................................................................................................................... 106
Incremental Time Sequences ........................................................................................................ 111
Independent Variable .......................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
using to find topics................................................................................................................... 42
Information type ....................................................................................................................... 46, 50
Initial Conditions .........................................................................................34, 59, 95, 110, 113, 120
Initial conditions defined .............................................................................................................. 113
Initial conditions describe ............................................................................................................. 113
Initial Increment Size................................................................................................................ 34, 59
Insert Row....................................................................................................................................... 59
Install .............................................................................................................................................. 41
Internal Boundary Conditions....................................................................................................... 115
Internet Explorer ............................................................................................................41, 48, 50, 51
Internet Explorer 4.0 ....................................................................................................................... 48
Internet Explorer 4.0. ................................................................................................................ 50, 51
Internet Options .................................................................................................................. 43, 50, 51
Internet Options dialog ............................................................................................................. 43, 51
Interpolation Functions .................................................................................................... 90, 91, 92
Derivatives............................................................................................................................... 92
Intersects ................................................................................................................17, 73, 77, 79, 119
isosurface ................................................................................................................................. 73
Introduction....................................................................................................................................... 7
Seep3D....................................................................................................................................... 7
169 GeoStudio
Introducton........................................................................................................................................ 7
Seep3D....................................................................................................................................... 7
Inverting.......................................................................................................................................... 92
Jacobian ................................................................................................................................... 92
Isoparametric .................................................................................................................................. 87
Isosurface.......................................................................................................................30, 52, 73, 81
Iso-surface....................................................................................................................................... 30
View ........................................................................................................................................ 30
Iso-surface....................................................................................................................................... 34
Iso-surface
View ........................................................................................................................................ 34
Iso-surface....................................................................................................................................... 73
Isosurface Commands..................................................................................................................... 81
Isosurface name .............................................................................................................................. 81
Isosurface Property Sheet ............................................................................................................... 81
Isosurface semi-transparent ............................................................................................................ 81
color ......................................................................................................................................... 81
generate.................................................................................................................................... 81
intersects .................................................................................................................................. 73
makes ....................................................................................................................................... 81
regenerate................................................................................................................................. 81
Isosurfaces .....................................................................................................................52, 54, 57, 73
Issue Date........................................................................................................................................ 57
Iteration Scheme ........................................................................................................................... 102
Iterations ..............................................................................................................30, 34, 59, 102, 119
Iterative Methods Library ............................................................................................................. 102
J
Jacobian .................................................................................................................................... 92, 96
inverting................................................................................................................................... 92
Jump................................................................................................................................................ 43
select ........................................................................................................................................ 43
jumping from within a help topic.................................................................................................... 41
K
K function ....................................................................................................................................... 34
Kb ................................................................................................................................................. 123
Kilo-Newton ................................................................................................................................. 106
KN ................................................................................................................................................ 106
KN/m2 .......................................................................................................................................... 106
KN/m3 .......................................................................................................................................... 106
KPa ............................................................................................................................................... 106
K-Ratios.......................................................................................................................................... 99
Ksat ............................................................................................................................................... 115
Kx ............................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Kx Function Edit button.................................................................................................................. 30
L
L/T .................................................................................................................................................. 62
L2/T ................................................................................................................................................ 62
L3.................................................................................................................................................. 106
L3/T/L..................................................................................................................................... 62, 106
L3/T/L2................................................................................................................................... 62, 106
Laboratory-measured ...................................................................................................................... 62
Lancaster....................................................................................................................................... 105
170 Seep3D
Large Icon ....................................................................................................................................... 56

Last group ....................................................................................................................................... 50
search only............................................................................................................................... 50
Legal Notice.................................................................................................................................... 57
LEGO®............................................................................................................................................. 7
License............................................................................................................................................ 57
License file...................................................................................................................................... 57
License File Name .......................................................................................................................... 57
License Issuer ................................................................................................................................. 57
License Page ................................................................................................................................... 57
License Version .............................................................................................................................. 57
Licensed Product............................................................................................................................. 57
Line Commands.............................................................................................................................. 70
Line passing .................................................................................................................................... 76
Line Property Sheet ........................................................................................................................ 70
Line traces......................................................................................................................73, 76, 77, 79
Lines ............................ 7, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 100, 106
link color
changing................................................................................................................................... 51
Linking............................................................................................................................................ 43
Web.......................................................................................................................................... 43
links
using ........................................................................................................................................ 41
List Topics .....................................................................................................................47, 48, 49, 50
GeoStudio Script Files contain ................................................................................................ 57
Script Files contain .................................................................................................................. 57
listing related topics ........................................................................................................................ 41
Local Coordinate Systems .............................................................................................................. 87
Hex Element ............................................................................................................................ 87
Location ........................................................... 7, 17, 26, 34, 48, 52, 54, 59, 62, 69, 73, 96, 115, 119
Locations Page................................................................................................................................ 62
Log10.............................................................................................................................................. 59
lowercase ........................................................................................................................................ 47
M
M 95, 106
M2/sec........................................................................................................................................... 106
M3................................................................................................................................................. 106
M3/sec........................................................................................................................................... 106
Makes........................................... 7, 24, 42, 50, 52, 59, 67, 79, 81, 82, 100, 102, 106, 111, 115, 123
isosurface ................................................................................................................................. 81
isosurface semi-transparent...................................................................................................... 81
Manipulating................................................................................................................................... 22
Regions .................................................................................................................................... 22
Manipulators ........................................................................22, 24, 26, 30, 34, 69, 70, 72, 76, 77, 79
Manipulators on Multiply Selected Faces....................................................................................... 24
Single Selected Face ................................................................................................................ 22
Mass Matrix .........................................................................................................94, 95, 96, 100, 104
matching similar words..................................................................................................43, 47, 48, 49
Material contains............................................................................................................................. 68
material .................................................................................................................................... 68
Material contributes .............................................................................................................. 109, 111
Material Page .................................................................................................................................. 68
Material-1 ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Materials ................ 7, 26, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 64, 68, 87, 102, 105, 106, 109, 110, 111, 115, 120
Apply ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
171 GeoStudio
Does............................................................................................................................... 109, 111

material contains...................................................................................................................... 68
Matl Locations Page ....................................................................................................................... 59
Max ................................................................................................................................................. 73
Maximum.....................................................................................................................59, 67, 73, 113
Maximum Change........................................................................................................................... 59
Maximum Conductivity Change..................................................................................................... 59
Menus17, 22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 34, 46, 52, 56, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Mesh ........................................ 7, 30, 34, 52, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 108, 113
Mesh Data Page .............................................................................................................................. 59
Mesh Design ................................................................................................................................. 108
Mesh Divisions ......................................................................................................................... 67, 70
Mesh Divisions Page....................................................................................................................... 67
Mesh Page....................................................................................................................................... 70
Mesh View................................................................................................................................ 67, 70
choose ...................................................................................................................................... 70
choosing................................................................................................................................... 67
Region................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
select .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Metres ........................................................................................................................................... 106
Microsoft HTML Help.................................................................................................................... 41
Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 ...................................................................................................... 51
Microsoft Word..............................................................................................................62, 76, 77, 79
Microsoft's help window................................................................................................................. 41
Microsoft's Internet Explorer .................................................................................................... 41, 51
Min.................................................................................................................................................. 73
Minimum .................................................................................................................................. 59, 73
Minimum Change ........................................................................................................................... 59
equal ........................................................................................................................................ 59
Minimum Conductivity Change...................................................................................................... 59
Model Geometry ......................................................................................................................... 7, 17
Modelling...........................................................................................................7, 106, 109, 115, 119
Modelling clay .............................................................................................................................. 109
Modelling Guidelines.................................................................................................................... 106
Modelling Progression .................................................................................................................. 106
Modelling specifications............................................................................................................... 106
problem.................................................................................................................................. 106
respect.................................................................................................................................... 115
Seep3D allows ............................................................................................................... 106, 119
Modify ............................................... 7, 41, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Morgenstern .................................................................................................................................... 86
Mouse ............................................................................17, 22, 24, 26, 30, 34, 46, 56, 68, 72, 76, 77
Mousekey........................................................................................................................................ 46
Use........................................................................................................................................... 46
Move ........................................ 22, 26, 30, 34, 43, 52, 59, 62, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 106
Move back ...................................................................................................................................... 43
Move forward ................................................................................................................................. 43
toolbars .................................................................................................................................... 52
moving through help topics ............................................................................................................ 43
Multiple Edge Translate.................................................................................................................. 24
Multiple Face Translate .................................................................................................................. 24
Selecting .................................................................................................................................. 24
Mv............................................................................................................................................. 34, 83
Mw...................................................................................................................................83, 100, 123
172 Seep3D
N
Name Field................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Name Page ................................................... 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Narrow Rainbow............................................................................................................................. 73
narrowing a search
see refining .............................................................................................................................. 48
navigating ....................................................................................................................................... 43
Navigation......................................................................................................................42, 43, 50, 51
changing the width of .............................................................................................................. 50
display...................................................................................................................................... 43
show......................................................................................................................................... 43
NEAR operator ............................................................................................................................... 48
NEAR window................................................................................................................................ 49
Negative pore-water pressure near........................................................................................ 113, 115
Negative Pore-Water Pressures........................................................................84, 111, 113, 115, 120
nested expressions............................................................................................................... 47, 48, 49
Network .......................................................................................................................................... 52
New7, 17, 26, 30, 34, 42, 48, 50, 51, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 95, 100
New coordinates ............................................................................................................................. 26
point......................................................................................................................................... 26
New Hex Region............................................................................................................17, 54, 68, 69
New Hull Contours ............................................................................................................. 52, 73, 82
selecting ................................................................................................................................... 82
New Isosurface ................................................................................................................... 52, 73, 81
selecting ................................................................................................................................... 81
New Point button ...................................................................................................................... 30, 34
New Prism Region .........................................................................................................17, 54, 68, 69
New Result Line ................................................................................................................. 52, 73, 77
New Step......................................................................................................................................... 59
New Tet Region .............................................................................................................17, 54, 68, 69
New Window .................................................................................................................54, 76, 77, 79
New window containing ..................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
selecting ......................................................................................................30, 34, 72, 76, 77, 79
XY ............................................................................................................................... 76, 77, 79
Next button ..................................................................................................................................... 43
next topic
displaying................................................................................................................................. 43
Nodal Flux .......................................................................................................................95, 102, 106
Node Numbering System................................................................................................................ 87
Hex Element ............................................................................................................................ 87
Nodes ..................................... 26, 59, 62, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 92, 108, 109, 113, 115, 119
Nodes becoming ........................................................................................................................... 115
Nodes underlying............................................................................................................................ 62
Number .................................................................................................................................... 59
Non-infiltrative ............................................................................................................................. 111
Non-linear checkbox................................................................................................................. 30, 34
check.................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Normal ................................................................................................................................ 22, 24, 79
Normal indicate............................................................................................................................... 22
NOT ................................................................................................................................................ 49
NOT operator.................................................................................................................................. 48
Number .................................................... 30, 34, 47, 52, 57, 59, 67, 68, 69, 70, 73, 77, 79, 102, 108
Nodes ....................................................................................................................................... 59
Regions .................................................................................................................................... 59
173 GeoStudio
Result Set containing ............................................................................................................... 73

Time Steps ............................................................................................................................... 59
numbers
searching for ............................................................................................................................ 47
Numerical Integration ..........................................................................................68, 69, 96, 100, 102
O
Object................... 7, 17, 26, 30, 34, 52, 54, 56, 57, 59, 62, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Object needs.................................................................................................................................... 82
Object Reference............................................................................................................................. 57
Obtained................................................................... 30, 57, 59, 83, 92, 106, 108, 109, 111, 113, 115
One-dimensional............................................................................................................................. 83
Open....................... 17, 26, 30, 34, 41, 42, 43, 46, 50, 52, 57, 59, 62, 68, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 115
Open All.......................................................................................................................................... 46
Open dialog..................................................................................................................................... 57
Accessibility Properties dialog ................................................................................................ 46
Curve Properties ...................................................................................................................... 34
Customize Information Wizard ............................................................................................... 46
Solid Regions........................................................................................................................... 68
opening the navigation pane ........................................................................................................... 43
operators in full-text search ............................................................................................................ 48
Options............. 17, 22, 26, 30, 34, 42, 43, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 73, 76, 77, 79, 115
Options button................................................................................................................................. 48
Options menu............................................................................................................................ 43, 50
Display..................................................................................................................................... 43
toolbar...................................................................................................................................... 47
OR operator..................................................................................................................................... 48
Orientation ................................................................................................................................ 17, 52
P
panes
resizing..................................................................................................................................... 50
Panning ........................................................................................................................................... 56
thumbwheels............................................................................................................................ 56
Paper ............................................................................................................................................... 52
Parameter list .................................................................................................................................. 30
Parameter Properties ....................................................................................................................... 73
parentheses................................................................................................................................ 47, 49
Paste.........................................................................................................................42, 62, 76, 77, 79
Pcf ................................................................................................................................................. 106
Performance .................................................................................................................................. 108
Performance rating........................................................................................................................ 108
elements ................................................................................................................................. 108
period (punctuation)........................................................................................................................ 47
phrases
searching for ............................................................................................................................ 48
Phreatic ................................................................................................................................. 111, 119
Physical Address............................................................................................................................... 7
Piezometric Surface .................................................................................................................. 30, 34
View .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Placing ............................................................................................................................................ 17
tet17
Plane ............................................................................................................22, 24, 30, 54, 56, 73, 79
Plane cutting ................................................................................................................................... 30
3D View Window .................................................................................................................... 54
174 Seep3D
Point Commands............................................................................................................................. 71
Point Coordinates............................................................................................................................ 71
Point Property Sheet ........................................................................................................... 26, 71, 72
Point Table...................................................................................................................................... 62
Point Translate ................................................................................................................................ 22
Selecting .................................................................................................................................. 22
Points17, 22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 34, 50, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 92, 100, 111, 115, 119
new coordinates ....................................................................................................................... 26
Z coordinates ............................................................................................................... 71, 77, 79
Ponding ......................................................................................................................................... 115
surface.................................................................................................................................... 115
Poor Performance Elements.......................................................................................................... 108
pop-up help ..................................................................................................................................... 42
position
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
Potential Seepage...........................................................................................30, 34, 59, 62, 115, 119
Potential Seepage Boundaries....................................................................................................... 119
Potential Seepage Faces...............................................................................................30, 34, 62, 119
Potential Seepage Maximum .......................................................................................................... 59
Pressing............................................................................................................................... 22, 62, 68
Delete key .......................................................................................................................... 62, 68
OK ........................................................................................................................................... 22
Pressure..................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Pressure Head ......................................................................................................30, 34, 62, 106, 115
Pressure head equal....................................................................................................................... 115
Previous button ............................................................................................................................... 43
previous search results .................................................................................................................... 48
previous topic
displaying................................................................................................................................. 43
Print............................................................................................17, 42, 43, 46, 48, 52, 62, 76, 77, 79
Print Preview................................................................................................................................... 52
Print Setup ...................................................................................................................................... 52
Problem........ 7, 17, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62, 84, 105, 106, 108, 109, 110, 111, 113, 115, 119, 120
Problem contains........................................................................................................................... 111
define ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Defining ............................................................................................................................. 30, 34
modelling ............................................................................................................................... 106
Solve .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Project ................................................................................................7, 17, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 73
Project Commands .......................................................................................................................... 57
Project File................................................................................................................................ 52, 57
Project Property Sheet..................................................................................................................... 57
Properties7, 17, 26, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 83, 106, 109
Close .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
contains.................................................................................................................................... 57
Shading .................................................................................................................................... 73
Property Sheet................ 17, 26, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Close .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Psf ................................................................................................................................................. 106
punctuation marks........................................................................................................................... 47
Q
Q vs............................................................................................................................................... 115
function.................................................................................................................................. 115
queries............................................................................................................................47, 48, 49, 73
query syntax.................................................................................................................................... 47
175 GeoStudio
question mark............................................................................................................................ 42, 48

quotation marks......................................................................................................................... 47, 48
R
Rahardjo.......................................................................................................................................... 83
Range .............................................................................................................................................. 73
Range Properties ............................................................................................................................. 73
Rank................................................................................................................................................ 48
ranking search results...................................................................................................................... 48
Rate ............................................................................................................59, 83, 100, 111, 113, 115
Conductivity Change ............................................................................................................... 59
Redo........................................... 52, 54, 56, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Refer ......................................................................................................................................... 26, 73
Reference Pt.................................................................................................................................... 79
refining searches ............................................................................................................................. 48
Refresh button................................................................................................................................. 41
refreshing Web content ................................................................................................................... 41
Regenerate ...................................................................................................................................... 81
isosurface ................................................................................................................................. 81
Region.......... 7, 17, 22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 34, 52, 56, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 76, 77, 82, 115
Region Edges .......................................................................................................22, 52, 54, 110, 115
Region editing................................................................................................................................. 26
Region Faces........................................................................................7, 17, 22, 26, 52, 54, 104, 115
Region Points.......................................................................................................................... 76, 115
Region Properties................................................................................................................ 30, 34, 68
Keeping.................................................................................................................................... 34
Region Property Sheet ........................................................................................................ 30, 34, 68
Region View ....................................................................................................................... 22, 25, 26
Create................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Manipulating............................................................................................................................ 22
Mesh .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Number .................................................................................................................................... 59
return........................................................................................................................................ 26
related topics ............................................................................................................41, 50, 68, 69, 70
Relative ........................................................................................................................................... 22
Relevant Materials ................................................................................................................ 109, 120
Remove ............................................................................................................26, 42, 43, 62, 82, 115
removing topics from Favorites ...................................................................................................... 42
renaming help topics ....................................................................................................................... 42
Reposition ....................................................................................................................................... 50
Help Viewer............................................................................................................................. 50
repositioning the Help Viewer ........................................................................................................ 50
Request ........................................................................................................................................... 48
Reservoir....................................................................................................30, 34, 109, 115, 119, 120
Fluctuating ............................................................................................................................. 115
resizing the Help Viewer ................................................................................................................ 50
Respect.............................................................................................................................. 56, 92, 115
3D View................................................................................................................................... 56
modelled ................................................................................................................................ 115
Result contours ......................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Result Cut Plane........................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Result Line.........................................................................................................30, 52, 57, 73, 76, 77
Result Line Commands................................................................................................................... 77
Result Line name ............................................................................................................................ 77
Result Line Property Sheet ............................................................................................................. 77
Result Plane .............................................................................................7, 30, 34, 52, 57, 73, 76, 79
176 Seep3D
Result Plane Commands ................................................................................................................. 79

Result Plane name........................................................................................................................... 79
Result Plane Property Sheet............................................................................................................ 79
Result Point..................................................................................................30, 34, 52, 57, 72, 73, 76
Result Point Commands.................................................................................................................. 76
Result Point name ........................................................................................................................... 76
Result Point Property Sheet ............................................................................................................ 76
Result Set Commands ..................................................................................................................... 73
Result Set containing ................................................................................................................ 52, 73
number ..................................................................................................................................... 73
Result Set Object ...........................................................................................................30, 34, 57, 73
Result Set Property Sheet.........................................................................................30, 73, 76, 77, 79
Result Sets heading ......................................................................................................................... 73
ResultPoint...................................................................................................................................... 30
Results7, 26, 30, 34, 42, 43, 47, 48, 50, 52, 54, 57, 59, 70, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 83, 102, 106, 108, 111, 113,
115
Results Set ...........................................................................30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Results Set Properties ..............................................................................................30, 73, 76, 77, 79
Results View ..................................................................................................................54, 57, 59, 76
ResultSet-1 Object .......................................................................................................................... 34
Return ................................................................................................................26, 41, 42, 43, 72, 92
Region View ............................................................................................................................ 26
Top........................................................................................................................................... 72
Topic........................................................................................................................................ 43
Review Nodes ............................................................................................................................... 119
right clicking ................................................................................................................................... 42
Rockfill ......................................................................................................................................... 109
Rotate Domain ................................................................................................................................ 25
Rotates .................................................................................................................7, 25, 34, 56, 69, 79
3D View................................................................................................................................... 69
rules for queries .............................................................................................................................. 47
Run.................................................................................................................................................. 43
S
Salkauskas..................................................................................................................................... 105
Sandy ........................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Save......................................................................................................17, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 73, 102
Save As ........................................................................................................................................... 57
Save As dialog ................................................................................................................................ 57
Save writes...................................................................................................................................... 57
Scale Domain.................................................................................................................................. 25
Scale Properties............................................................................................................................... 73
Script Files ...................................................................................................................................... 57
Script Files contain ......................................................................................................................... 57
list ............................................................................................................................................ 57
Search Highlight Off....................................................................................................................... 47
Search Highlight On ................................................................................................................. 47, 48
Search only ............................................................................................................................... 48, 50
last group ................................................................................................................................. 50
search results
using ........................................................................................................................................ 48
search syntax................................................................................................................................... 47
Search tab...........................................................................................................42, 43, 47, 48, 49, 50
Search term ............................................................................................................................... 48, 49
Search titles..................................................................................................................................... 49
search words
177 GeoStudio
highlighting.............................................................................................................................. 47
Searched topics ............................................................................................................................... 47
searching ........................................................................................................................43, 48, 49, 50
select .................................................................................................................................. 49, 50
words ................................................................................................................................. 48, 49
See ........................................... 26, 30, 34, 42, 46, 47, 57, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 79, 81, 82, 83, 95, 111
Three Pumping Well file.......................................................................................................... 26
SEEP/W ...........................................................................................................................84, 120, 123
Seep3D7, 17, 30, 34, 41, 57, 59, 67, 70, 83, 85, 86, 90, 92, 95, 96, 100, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 108, 110, 113, 115,
119, 120, 123
Seep3D convert............................................................................................................................. 115
Seep3D obtains ............................................................................................................................. 100
Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 7
mw value................................................................................................................................ 100
Seepage ................................................................ 7, 30, 34, 59, 83, 92, 106, 109, 111, 113, 115, 119
Seepage modelling ........................................................................................................................ 115
Type ................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Segerlind ................................................................................................................................. 95, 100
Segment Shape................................................................................................................................ 62
Select17, 22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 34, 42, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77,
79, 81, 82, 106
Select All ........................................................................................................................................ 42
Select New ................................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Select OK........................................................................................................................................ 52
Select Steady State.......................................................................................................................... 34
BC's.......................................................................................................................................... 34
checkbox.................................................................................................................................. 59
Conductivity ...................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Copy button ................................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
Data.......................................................................................................................................... 76
Display Contours ..................................................................................................................... 34
Edge Translate ......................................................................................................................... 22
Edit Action............................................................................................................................... 62
Face Translate.......................................................................................................................... 22
Generate................................................................................................................................... 59
Generate button........................................................................................................................ 59
Graph button ............................................................................................................................ 76
Jump ........................................................................................................................................ 43
Mesh .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Multiple Face Translate ........................................................................................................... 24
New.............................................................................................................30, 34, 72, 76, 77, 79
New Hull Contours .................................................................................................................. 82
New Isosurface ........................................................................................................................ 81
Point Translate ......................................................................................................................... 22
Search ................................................................................................................................ 49, 50
Set Global Divisions ................................................................................................................ 67
Steady State ....................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Surface ..................................................................................................................................... 34
Time......................................................................................................................................... 76
Time Tab............................................................................................................................ 30, 34
Transient .................................................................................................................................. 34
Use MouseKeys ....................................................................................................................... 46
Selectable .................................................................................................................................. 52, 54
Semi-transparent ....................................................................................................................... 79, 82
Serial Number ................................................................................................................................. 57
Server.............................................................................................................................................. 57
178 Seep3D
Server Computer ............................................................................................................................. 57

Services........................................................................................................................................... 43
Set Global Divisions ................................................................................................................. 67, 70
Set Global Divisions Dialog Box.................................................................................................... 67
select ........................................................................................................................................ 67
use............................................................................................................................................ 70
Setting ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34, 95
colour ....................................................................................................................................... 34
Steady State ............................................................................................................................. 34
Target Number................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Transient .................................................................................................................................. 34
Settings ..........................................................................26, 30, 43, 46, 50, 51, 57, 59, 72, 73, 76, 77
Setup ................................................................................................................................................. 7
Shading ........................................................................................................................................... 73
Properties ................................................................................................................................. 73
SHIFT key ...................................................................................................................................... 54
SHIFT+F10..................................................................................................................................... 46
Shift-TAB key................................................................................................................................. 62
Shortcut menu commands............................................................................................................... 46
Using........................................................................................................................................ 46
shortcuts...............................................................................17, 22, 24, 25, 26, 30, 34, 43, 46, 52, 57
Show ................................................................ 22, 26, 30, 34, 43, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 108
Show button .................................................................................................................................... 43
Navigation pane ....................................................................................................................... 43
showing the navigation pane........................................................................................................... 43
shrinking the Help Viewer .............................................................................................................. 50
Side ..............................................................................................................................30, 34, 69, 109
Silt................................................................................................................................................... 83
similar words
searching for ............................................................................................................................ 48
Single Selected Face ....................................................................................................................... 22
Manipulators............................................................................................................................ 22
size of Help Viewer
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
size of text
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
Sketch ....................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
homogenous............................................................................................................................. 34
Small Icon....................................................................................................................................... 56
Smooth...................................................................................................................................... 62, 73
use............................................................................................................................................ 62
Snapping ........................................................................................................................26, 30, 34, 52
Snapping dialog .............................................................................................................................. 26
Software.........................................................................................................................7, 50, 83, 115
Solid Region Commands ................................................................................................................ 68
Solid Regions...................................................................................57, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 77, 79, 82
Creating ................................................................................................................................... 68
open ......................................................................................................................................... 68
Solve .............. 17, 26, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 70, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 95, 102, 106, 108, 111, 119
Solve Button ................................................................................................................................... 30
Solve Window........................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Problem.............................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Solver Page ..................................................................................................................................... 59
Solver window ................................................................................................................................ 59
sorting search results....................................................................................................................... 48
Specification ......................................................................................................................... 106, 115
179 GeoStudio
Specify22, 25, 26, 34, 43, 48, 50, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 82, 83, 106, 109, 111, 113, 115, 119
Fixed Point............................................................................................................................... 25
Standard .......................................................................................................................................... 52
Start Date ........................................................................................................................................ 57
Start Point ................................................................................................................................. 46, 77
Started ............................................................................34, 43, 46, 57, 59, 73, 77, 95, 106, 113, 119
clicking .................................................................................................................................... 46
Steady State................................................................................................................30, 34, 113, 115
select .................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Set ............................................................................................................................................ 34
Steady-State ...........................................................................................................7, 59, 62, 111, 113
Steady-State Conditions.......................................................................................................... 86, 113
Steep Functions..................................................................................................................... 111, 120
Step ........................................................................................................................30, 34, 59, 62, 106
Step Size ......................................................................................................................................... 59
Stop ........................................................................................................................................... 43, 59
Stop button...................................................................................................................................... 41
stop downloading a Web page ........................................................................................................ 41
Web.......................................................................................................................................... 43
Stops downloading file ................................................................................................................... 43
Storativity ..................................................................................................................................... 123
Stress-deformation ............................................................................................................................ 7
Styles............................................................................................................................................... 50
accessibility ............................................................................................................................. 50
Surface ............... 7, 26, 30, 34, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 111, 113, 115, 119
Surface BC Edit .............................................................................................................................. 26
Surface Commands ......................................................................................................................... 69
Surface Flux...............................................................................................................30, 34, 113, 115
Surface flux tends ......................................................................................................................... 113
Surface Property Sheet.................................................................................................................... 69
ponding .................................................................................................................................. 115
select ........................................................................................................................................ 34
syntax for searching ........................................................................................................................ 47
T
TAB key.............................................................................................................................. 30, 34, 62
Use........................................................................................................................................... 62
Table listing ........................................................................................................................ 59, 62, 67
searching for words in titles..................................................................................................... 49
using to find help topics........................................................................................................... 42
Target Number...............................................................................................................30, 34, 67, 70
Divisions............................................................................................................................ 30, 34
set....................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Technical Support ............................................................................................................................. 7
GeoStudio .................................................................................................................................. 7
Tension ........................................................................................................................................... 62
Tet ................................................................................................................................................... 17
placing ..................................................................................................................................... 17
Tets ............................................................................................................................................... 108
text color
changing................................................................................................................................... 51
text highlighting.............................................................................................................................. 47
text search ....................................................................................................................................... 48
text size
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
180 Seep3D
Theory............................................................................................................................................ 83
Three Pumping Well file................................................................................................................. 26
see ............................................................................................................................................ 26
Thumbwheel ................................................................................................................................... 56
Thumbwheels.................................................................................................................................. 56
panning .................................................................................................................................... 56
Time....... 26, 30, 34, 43, 52, 59, 62, 67, 71, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82, 95, 100, 106, 108, 111, 115, 119
Time increment ............................................................................................................................. 111
Time Integration ............................................................................................................................. 95
Time Page ....................................................................................................................................... 59
Time step during ............................................................................................................................. 34
Time Step Table.............................................................................................................................. 59
Time Steps ...............................................................................................34, 52, 59, 62, 73, 111, 119
Time Steps dialog ........................................................................................................................... 34
close ......................................................................................................................................... 34
Time steps lead ............................................................................................................................. 111
Time steps need ............................................................................................................................ 111
Number .................................................................................................................................... 59
Time Tab................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Select ................................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Time-independent problems ........................................................................................................... 59
Selecting .................................................................................................................................. 76
tips on using help ............................................................................................................................ 41
Title....................................................................................................................43, 47, 48, 49, 50, 57
HTML files .............................................................................................................................. 49
titles
searching for words in ............................................................................................................. 49
Toolbar buttons ............................................................................................................................... 43
find topics using....................................................................................................................... 43
Toolbar Commands......................................................................................................................... 52
Back button.............................................................................................................................. 43
Forward button......................................................................................................................... 43
Hide button .............................................................................................................................. 43
Home button ............................................................................................................................ 43
Next button .............................................................................................................................. 43
Options..................................................................................................................................... 47
Previous button ........................................................................................................................ 43
Refresh button.......................................................................................................................... 41
Show button............................................................................................................................. 43
Stop button............................................................................................................................... 41
Toolbars .................................................................................................................................... 17, 52
move ........................................................................................................................................ 52
Top.........................................................................................................30, 34, 50, 52, 54, 69, 72, 79
Top views........................................................................................................................................ 69
Return ...................................................................................................................................... 72
Topic ..................................................................................41, 42, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 111
Topic pane .....................................................................................................................42, 43, 50, 51
topic pane font
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
topic pane width
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
displayed sequence ............................................................................................................................... 43
Help Viewer.......................................................................................................................................... 51
return..................................................................................................................................................... 43
181 GeoStudio
Topics containing...................................................................................................................... 48, 49

Total Head ........................................................................................................................ 34, 62, 113
Transient ...................................................... 7, 34, 52, 59, 73, 76, 77, 79, 83, 95, 111, 113, 115, 119
Transient Properties ........................................................................................................................ 59
choose ...................................................................................................................................... 34
define ....................................................................................................................................... 59
selecting ................................................................................................................................... 34
Set ............................................................................................................................................ 34
Translate Domain............................................................................................................................ 25
Transmissivity............................................................................................................................... 123
Transmissivity T ........................................................................................................................... 123
Tree View ...... 7, 17, 22, 26, 30, 34, 52, 54, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Tree View according....................................................................................................................... 57
Tree View provides......................................................................................................................... 54
Tree View Window......................................................................................................................... 54
use.....................................................................................................................26, 69, 70, 71, 72
Turn on MouseKeys........................................................................................................................ 46
Tutorials.................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Two-dimensional ............................................................................................................................ 81
Type ......................... 17, 30, 34, 42, 43, 47, 48, 49, 52, 56, 57, 59, 62, 69, 70, 71, 72, 109, 115, 119
Type Page ....................................................................................................................................... 59
Head................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Seepage.............................................................................................................................. 30, 34
Typical Convergence Record........................................................................................................ 120
U
Unacceptable Performance Region ............................................................................................... 108
Uncheck .................................................................................................................................... 68, 69
Unchecking ..................................................................................................................................... 26
underlined text ................................................................................................................................ 41
Undo .......................................... 52, 54, 56, 57, 59, 62, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 82
Unit Weight................................................................................................................57, 86, 100, 106
Water ..................................................................................................................................... 106
Units.........................................................................................57, 62, 67, 86, 94, 100, 102, 106, 115
Seep3D allows ....................................................................................................................... 115
Unnatural Boundary Conditions ................................................................................................... 120
Unneccessary ................................................................................................................................ 108
Unsymmetric................................................................................................................................. 102
uppercase ........................................................................................................................................ 47
Upstream Boundary Specification ................................................................................................ 115
Upstream Vertical Boundary ........................................................................................................ 115
Use ......7, 17, 26, 30, 34, 41, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 52, 57, 59, 62, 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 83, 108, 111, 123
Use MouseKeys .............................................................................................................................. 46
Select ....................................................................................................................................... 46
Use Services checkbox
Mousekey................................................................................................................................. 46
Set Global Divisions ................................................................................................................ 70
Smooth..................................................................................................................................... 62
TAB key .................................................................................................................................. 62
Tree View .........................................................................................................26, 69, 70, 71, 72
Using.................... 7, 17, 22, 26, 41, 43, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 56, 57, 67, 69, 79, 82, 92, 102, 106, 111
Using accessibility shortcut keys .................................................................................................... 43
Using Convergence Parameters .................................................................................................... 120
Using HTML Help Viewer
shortcut menu commands ........................................................................................................ 46
182 Seep3D
V
Valley................................................................................................................................ 30, 62, 105
Value7, 22, 30, 34, 52, 57, 59, 62, 67, 70, 72, 73, 76, 77, 79, 81, 83, 92, 100, 103, 105, 109, 110, 115, 120, 123
Rate_of_Change .................................................................................................................... 120
X-Y plot................................................................................................................................... 73
Vapour .......................................................................................................................................... 111
Vector Length ................................................................................................................................. 73
Vectors...............................................................................7, 22, 30, 52, 59, 73, 76, 77, 79, 100, 102
Vectors Page ................................................................................................................................... 73
Velocities .........................................................................................................................85, 103, 106
Verdana........................................................................................................................................... 41
View Contours button ............................................................................................................... 30, 34
View Extents................................................................................................................................... 54
View help topics grouped ............................................................................................................... 50
View menu.......................................................................................................................... 30, 34, 51
View Mesh.....................................................................................................................30, 34, 52, 54
View Mesh button..................................................................................................................... 30, 34
View Perpendicular................................................................................................................... 54, 69
Face.................................................................................................................................... 54, 69
View Regions.....................................................................................................30, 34, 52, 54, 68, 69
View Regions button ................................................................................................................ 30, 34
View Regions View ........................................................................................................................ 54
View toolbar ....................................................................................................................... 30, 34, 52
View Toolbar Commands ............................................................................................................... 52
View toolbars.................................................................................................................................. 52
Viewer................................................................................................................................. 43, 48, 50
Viewer Only Mode
drag .......................................................................................................................................... 50
Viewing..................................................................................................................................... 30, 34
viewing favorite help topics............................................................................................................ 42
viewing related topics ..................................................................................................................... 41
viewing the navigation pane ........................................................................................................... 43
viewing Web content ...................................................................................................................... 41
Flux Quantities......................................................................................................................... 34
Flux Quantity ........................................................................................................................... 30
Hull Contours .................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Iso-surface ......................................................................................................................... 30, 34
Piezometric Surface ........................................................................................................... 30, 34
Vol .................................................................................................................................................. 34
Volume Compressibility ................................................................................................................. 34
Volumetric Water Content Function..........................................................................34, 83, 110, 120
Effect ..................................................................................................................................... 120
Vs.............................................................................................................................................. 77, 79
Vw .................................................................................................................................................. 83
W
Walls ............................................................................................................................................... 26
Water.................... 30, 34, 57, 83, 84, 85, 86, 100, 103, 105, 106, 109, 111, 113, 115, 119, 120, 123
Water Content Functions ................................................................................................................ 83
Fine Sand ................................................................................................................................. 83
Water entering............................................................................................................................... 115
Water leaving................................................................................................................................ 119
Unit Weight ........................................................................................................................... 106
Web................................................................................................................................................. 43
Web content .................................................................................................................................... 43
183 GeoStudio
viewing .................................................................................................................................... 41
Web Site
linking...................................................................................................................................... 43
stop .......................................................................................................................................... 43
Weighted Splines .................................................................................................................... 62, 105
Weighting ....................................................................................................................................... 96
Wide Rainbow ................................................................................................................................ 73
width
changing................................................................................................................................... 50
wildcards................................................................................................................................... 47, 48
Wilson........................................................................................................................................... 115
window color
changing................................................................................................................................... 51
Window corners.................................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
window customization .................................................................................................................... 50
window panes
resizing..................................................................................................................................... 50
Windows .................................................................. 22, 41, 42, 43, 49, 52, 56, 57, 59, 62, 76, 77, 79
Windows application .....................................................................................................62, 76, 77, 79
Windows clipboard ........................................................................................................62, 76, 77, 79
Windows Notepad........................................................................................................................... 57
Windows NT4
table ............................................................................................................................. 76, 77, 79
Window's Verdana.......................................................................................................................... 41
Wireframe ........................................................................................................................... 17, 52, 54
Wireframe drawing ......................................................................................................................... 17
word highlighting............................................................................................................................ 47
Word matches ................................................................................................................................. 47
word search ..................................................................................................................................... 48
Words.................................................................................................42, 43, 47, 48, 49, 52, 109, 115
search ....................................................................................................................................... 49
Searching ................................................................................................................................. 48
Ws ................................................................................................................................................... 17
Y
Y spacing ........................................................................................................................................ 79
Y values .......................................................................................................................................... 62
Z
Z coordinates............................................................................................................71, 72, 76, 77, 79
point............................................................................................................................. 71, 77, 79
Zoom..................................................................................................................................... 7, 54, 56

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Seep 3 D

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User's Guide

for 3D finite element seepage analysis

GEO-SLOPE International Ltd.

Copyright © 2000 - 2002

View a Flux Quantity................................................................................................................... 34

The Help system .................................................................................................................................... 41

GeoStudio Workspace .......................................................................................................................... 52

Object Reference ................................................................................................................................... 57

Modelling Guidelines .......................................................................................................................... 106

Verification ........................................................................................................................................... 125

Unsaturated Hydraulic Conductivity ................................................................................................. 144

Predictive Method................................................................................................................................ 145

Index ..................................................................................................................................................... 159

2. Run the Setup Program and install the GeoStudio application.

3. Install Internet Explorer, as outlined in "Installing GeoStudio".

4. Contact GEO-SLOPE to obtain a GeoStudio License (e.g., a Seep3D license).

6. You are now ready to run GeoStudio.

GEO-SLOPE recommends the following system:

• Pentium II or higher processor with a 400 MHz or higher clock speed.

• 128MB of RAM (256MB or more for large problems).

1. Insert the CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive.

Modifying your GeoStudio Installation

2. Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon.

3. Click the Install/Uninstall tab.

4. Click GeoStudio, and then click Add/Remove.

5. Select Remove, Repair or Modify.

6. Follow the instructions given by the program.

Managing GeoStudio License Files

Licenses are of two main types.

Finding your Ethernet Address

A command window is displayed.

2. In the command window, type the following command:

Installing a Standalone License file

To install a Standalone license file on your computer:

3. Select the "Use License Files Only" option.

Managing Network Licenses

Requirements for running Network Licenses

• Network Software installed on the License Server Computer.

• License Server Program should be running.

Choosing the License Server Computer

Installing the Network License Software

7. Write down or copy the returned Host ID.

Running the License Server Program as a Windows Service

5. Type the path to the license file.

7. Select the "Use Services" checkbox.

8. Select the "Start Server at Powerup" option.

9. Click the Save Service button.

2. To remove the service from the registered service list, run:

Running the License Server on the command line

To run and stop the License Server on the command line:

2. Run the License Server by typing the following:

3. Shut down the License Server by typing the following:

lmutil lmdown -c license_file_path

Running GEO-SLOPE Software from the Client Computers

To specify the location of the License Server on each client computer:

2. Select the Use License Server option.

computer name and click OK.

4. Click Close to dismiss the “GEO-SLOPE License Utility” window.

Viewing the GeoStudio Documentation

To install the Acrobat Viewer:

1. Run the software installation program from the distribution CD-ROM.

2. Click on Install Adobe Acrobat Viewer in the installation window.

The Acrobat Viewer Setup program begins execution.

3. Follow the instructions given by the Acrobat Viewer Setup program.

To view and print the Seep3D User's Guide in Acrobat format:

1. Start the Acrobat Viewer.