Numerical Modelling of Bio-Inspired Cone Pressuremeter Probe in Stratified Soil

Abstract In recent times, geotechnical engineering community has shown deep interest in bio-inspired self-penetrating probes for site-characterization in rugged, difficult terrains and planetary exploration due to their high energy efficiency [1, 2]. In particular, the efficacy of a cone pressuremeter for bio-inspired self-penetration was explored by studying soil failure mechanisms after each stage of self-penetration [1]. These stages involve cone penetration, anchor expansion, and tip advancement (Fig. 1a). Most studies in existing literature have focused on probe advancement in a single homogeneous soil. However, self-penetrating probes for site characterization traverse through multiple soil layers with different characteristics, resulting in complexities in interpreting the probe response at these critical transition zones [3]. The Material Point Method (MPM) has been adopted in this study, capitalizing on the inherent advantages of particle and continuum frameworks. This study presents a viable and computationally efficient MPM framework to investigate the influence of layered strata on bio-inspired cone pressuremeter probes.