Xia Ting Feng - State Key Laboratory of Geomechchanics and Geotechnical Engineering Institute of Rock and Soil Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China

Firstly, a modern design method is introduced. This method includes several steps such as recognition of project purpose, recognition of key features of project, rockmass and site, establishment of modeling strtagy, selection of modeling methods and codes, establishment of initial design, establishment of integrated modeling and feedback analysis strategy, and establishment of final design and verification. In the design flowchart, potential failure modes of underground rock engineering are recognized. The corresponding analysis methods and prevention measures are suggested for each potential failure mode. A global optimal design method is recommended to reduce excavation damaged zone, excavation disturbed zone, accumulation and release of energy to reduce failure intensity of rockmass. Typical applications to large underground powerhouses in China have been illustrative

Underground rock engineering, optimal design, geo-disaster prevention, neural networks, failure modes