Foundation Vibration Analysis: A Strength of Materials Approach

Structural analysis is usually carried out by a strength-of-materials approach that allows complex 3-D structures to be modelled adequately for design needs in a single dimension. However, this approach is not extensively used in geotechnical engineering, partly because 3-D media (soil, rock) are present, but more importantly because until recently the methods necessary to carry out this form of analysis did not exist.

In the last ten years efforts at modelling practical problems in foundation analysis using a strength-of-materials approach have developed the concept of the conical bar or beam as a tool. Such cone models can be used to model a foundation in a dynamic soil-structure interaction analysis with a variation of the properties with depth.

This book develops this new approach from scratch in a readable and accessible manner. A systematic evaluation for a wide range of actual sites demonstrates sufficient engineering accuracy. A short computer program written in MATLAB and a user-friendly executable program are provided, while practical examples ensure a clear understanding of the topic.

Simplifies complex 3-D analysis of soil-structure interactionApplies strength-of-materials approach to geotechnical engineeringIllustrated with practical examplesExecutable program and MATLAB program for foundation vibration analysis

Foundation Vibration Analysis, 1st Edition

Statement of the problem ; One-dimensional wave propagation; Initial cone with outward wave propagation ; Reflected and refracted waves from soil layer discontinuities; Computation procedure based on strength-of-materials approach; Evaluation of accuracy; Engineering applications, with practical examples ; Conclusion. Appendices on programs and models.