Evaluation of the settlement influence factors of shallow foundation by numerical analyses

Several empirical and analytical methods have been proposed to estimate the elastic settlement of shallow foundations based on the elastic continuum theory. Previous methods have been generally proposed for circular foundations, its approach of using equivalent diameter was found less reliable for foundations of aspect ratio L/B > 2. This paper presents a three-dimensional numerical analysis to extend and improve the applicability of settlement influence and correction factors for shallow foundations of large aspect ratios. First, a methodical optimization and verification program was conducted to determine and verify a reliable model for numerical analysis. Using the verified model, two new sets of settlement influence factor and correction factor for foundation roughness of circular and rectangular foundations were then derived and proposed. A correction factor chart for the foundation rigidity of rectangular foundations was also proposed. Finally, the applicability of the proposed factors in this study was verified by comparing calculated settlements using the proposed factors along with the measured values from two raft foundations. The proposed approach was indicated to be a better alternative for foundations of L/B > 2.