ABSTRACT
Numerical simulation tools have become a key tool for practitioners in the field of natural hazard decision making and risk analysis. Over the past several years different numerical rockfall codes have been developed and applied for geotechnical risk assessment. The reliability of the simulation output depends on well calibrated input parameters for any given set of initial and boundary conditions. At present, calibration of rockfall models is performed using empirical back-calculations of specific case studies. Direct comparison to experimental data, however, would be preferred. A validation procedure is presented for rockfall simulation codes based on induced rockfall experimental data. The presented routine is a start point for facilitating and securing consistent (re-)calibration of physics based rockfall trajectory models. This is of key importance for guaranteeing the physical consistency of the numerical simulation kernel upon model enhancements or changes.
