GeoCoPS (3.0): Features

GeoCoPS solves a differential equation relating the circumference, the geosynthetic strength, the pumping pressure and the geometry of the tube. It is an iterative, efficient process, which is done in a design-oriented fashion. Realistic design parameters and constraints are input, allowing the designer to see the effects quickly.

Here are the features of GeoCoPS:

Output is presented graphically. The cross-section can be captured as a bitmap file. Most CAD programs can retrieve this file for further modifications. Most word-processors can also retrieve it for integration into a user-compiled report. Coordinates of cross-section can be exported to Excel.

Three analysis options are available:

  • If the given data includes the ultimate strength of the geosynthetic, GeoCoPS computes the geometry of the tube utilizing this strength. The analysis accounts for reduction factors such as installation damage, creep, aging, and seam strength.
  • If the given data specifies the maximum height of the tube, GeoCoPS computes the required ultimate strength of geosynthetic as well as the geometry of the tube.
  • If the pumping pressure is input, GeoCoPS computes the required ultimate strength of geosynthetic as well as the geometry of the tube.

For either analysis, the cross-sectional area of the tube is calculated. Consequently, the storage capacity of slurry is part of the solution.

Recognizing that geosynthetics are typically anisotropic, GeoCoPS produces both the circumferential and longitudinal stresses in the encapsulating geosynthetic.

Different reduction factors for seams in axial and circumferential directions can be specified (useful for ‘seamless tubes’).

Input data allows for up to two slurry layers to be considered in analysis. This feature is useful in case the first layer is pumped into the tube, followed by consolidation (i.e., allows water to seep out while the slurry density increases as its total volume decreases) and then being re-pumped with a second layer of slurry.The second pumping phase can be assessed using GeoCoPS.

Analysis of tubes that are partially or totally submerged in fluid (typically water) can be conducted. This realistic possibility allows for a rational reduction in the required geosynthetic strength in case of submergence. This reduction can be significant.

A detailed report, including graphical presentation of cross-section, can be printed. It can also be previewed prior to printing. Printing of report or capturing of bitmap files can also be done in black and white to improve reproduction and/or transmittal via fax.

The consolidated shape of the tube can be calculated using an approximated (simplified) approach. This feature may be important for long-term assessment of storage capacity or when tubes are used for the construction of dikes. The consolidated shape can be captured as a bitmap file. The graphics and calculated values appear as part of GeoCoPS printed report.

Results can be saved as a text file. This file can be retrieved by most word processors for integration into a user-compiled report.

GeoCoPS calculates the geosynthetic and fill material quantities. Upon entering unit cost, it displays or prints the total costs.

Details of analysis and comparison with case histories and numerical results reported by others are available in “Geosynthetic Tubes for Confining Pressurized Slurry: Some Design Aspects” Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, ASCE, 1996, Vol. 122, No. 8, pp. 682-690, by Leshchinsky et al. GeoCoPS (3.0) includes a copy of this paper in its Help function; it appears as supplemental notes. Keywords make access to information in Help easy. Photos of actuall tube structures were added for clarity. This publication serves as the basis for the analysis used in GeoCoPS. One can download the supplemental notes as a .pdf file (Download GeoCoPS Supplemental Notes).