Optimization of 3d Geometrical Soil Model for Multiple Footing Resting on Sand

Abstract

The study of ultimate bearing capacity (UBC) for a group of two or more footings had been made by investigators for the effect of interference of footings by various means, which is not considered in the conventional theories of bearing capacity. The Finite Element Method (FEM) initiated with 2D/3D modelling is being used for such complex problem. In the present study 3D geometrical soil models were developed and tested with multiple footing on cohesion-less soil using 3D FEM simulation software. This paper highlights optimized 3D geometrical soil model for multiple footing on sand. The meshing parameters, soil model size observed to be influencing the displacement and stresses to great extent.