The geotechnical engineering numerical analysis method is a powerful method for researching and analyzing complex geotechnical media and variable construction measures. It has irreplaceable advantages over traditional analytical methods

indoor test methods

simulation test methods and field test methods. According to the historical development

function and development trend of geotechnical engineering numerical methods

the numerical analysis can be divided into four levels: a high-level calculator

which directly contributes to the design of a specific geotechnical engineering

and calculates and analyzes the safety and stability of the geotechnical engineering project under various extreme design conditions; a powerful and unparalleled analog analyzer

which can simulate and analyze the interactions and coupling effects of various unfavorable factors in complex geotechnical engineering projects under complex working conditions; a cost-free and repeatable multi-functional testing machine

which can explore the stability mechanism of a specific geotechnical engineering project or the reinforcement mechanism of a certain engineering measure;the ultimate goal of the numerical analysis is to re-develop the numerical analysis method——to develop a new numerical analysis tool which is intelligent

fast and simple. This article discusses these four levels and gives examples of each level.