Design Model Optimization for Unpaved Roads

Year:

2024

Location:

Espelkamp, Germany

Client:

Bauberatung Geokunststoffe GmbH & Co. KG

Services:

R&D consultancy: Transforming a conservative design model into optimized but safe mathematical equations for unpaved road design
Digital transformation: Implementing the equations in a web-app software for internal and BBG client's use.

Developing a reliable and optimized mathematical model based on in-situ data for road design

BBG is Naue's consultancy, a global leader consultant in geotechnical solutions, faced a challenge in applying the Giroud-Han model for unpaved roads. While widely recognized in theory, the model lacked practical mathematical structure, leaving engineers dependent on assumptions and expert judgment. To close this gap, NEXATEK partnered with Naue to develop the modified Giroud-Han model, providing the first validated equations that transformed theoretical principles into reliable design practice.

The Giroud-Han model existed only as a theoretical framework without operational equations.
Engineers had no standardized method for designing unpaved road base courses.
Integrating geogrid reinforcement products into the model was not feasible.
Inconsistent calculations increased dependency on senior experts and slowed projects.
Lack of a scientific foundation limited knowledge transfer and publication potential.

NEXATEK's team of engineers and researchers transformed the Giroud-Han model into a modified version with validated mathematical equations for unpaved roads. This breakthrough went beyond producing a calculation sheet, it established a scientific backbone that had never been formally structured before. By converting theoretical assumptions into precise formulas, the solution allowed engineers to apply the methodology consistently, integrate Naue's reinforcement products seamlessly, and eliminate guesswork. Beyond internal application, the work also supported the publication of a scientific paper, extending its value to the wider geotechnical community.

The modified Giroud-Han equations delivered measurable impact for Naue and its engineering teams:

Provided a scientific, validated foundation for unpaved road design.
Enabled the integration of geogrid reinforcement products directly into reliable design methods.
Improved efficiency and consistency, reducing reliance on manual assumptions.
Enhanced knowledge sharing, with results contributing to research papers and long-term engineering practice.

Client's feedback

Dr. Elena Fischer

Lead Design Engineer

NEXATEK developed a complex mathematical model for our design tools. Their developed model improved accuracy and competitiveness of our solution and gave us more confidence with our daily project designs.