Numerical Investigation of the Dynamic Response of a Sand Cushion with Multiple Rockfall Impacts

A shed cave structure with a sand cushion is often used as protective for rockfall disasters. Because of the randomness and unpredictability disasters, cushions caves suffer multiple impacts from rockfalls. Aiming at problem rockfall, this paper uses three-dimensional discrete element method to study dynamic response on different heights. Before conducting large-scale simulation studies, input parameters in numerical model are verified data laboratory experiments. Analyzing results shows that when same point impacted times, maximum impact force penetration depth will increase number impacts. According results, calculation formula considers fitted. At time, considering positions distance range subsequent not affected by previous given. The significance studying rockfalls shown impacting times heights, it provides reference design disaster-protection structures practical engineering.