The limitation of closed form solutions, such as the Coulomb and Rankine equations, is that only simple level

and infi
nite sloping surcharges with uniform loadings can be analyzed. It is necessary to look at a “trial wedge” method or
“approximation” method when attempting to analyze broken back slopes or other slope/load combinations. AASHTO
and NCMA suggest an approximation method for broken-back slope conditions that defines equivalent design slopes
for the external analysis. However, the internal analysis is not well defi ned for unusual slopes and loading conditions
and the designer is expected to use engineering judgement with the simplifi ed methods. The KeyWall program uses
a “trial wedge” analysis for determining the internal and external forces in order to provide the “correct” results for
more complicated design geometries. The “trial wedge” calculation is an iterative process that determines the loading
at successive failure plane orientations until a maximum loading is determined for the geometry and surcharge
loading. The KeyWall “trial wedge” analysis used is consistent with the fundamental assumptions of the applicable
Coulomb and Rankine theories by setting δ = β. “Trial wedge” results match the equation solutions for the level and
infinite slope conditions, but will determine the “correct” internal and external values for broken back slope conditions
and offset live and dead loads. This method of analysis permits the designer to properly model many typical design
conditions and not overly simplify the analysis due to limitations of equation solutions and other design software.

Calculation Reference
Coulomb Trial Wedge