Accounting for shallow foundation settlement in the analysis and design of multi-storey frame buildings: Development of a new software package

Abstract

In this work we explain a new methodology that have been utilized in a new software package (program) to take into account the influence of foundation settlements in the analysis and design of 3D reinforced concrete frame buildings. We present the solution using a new load pattern in the program, named SETTLEMENT. Firstly, the program analyzes and calculates the displacements in the ground joints of the structure according to several methods of the prediction of the settlement of shallow foundations. Secondly, the program assigns these displacements in the ground joints and analyzes the structure under the influence of these displacements only, calculates the internal forces and the deformed shape of the structure, and stores these values within the results data of the SETTLEMENT load pattern. The program is based on finite elements method. It provides a drawing environment (3D view, plan view, elevation view) with tools to create the model and to perform the structural analysis and design.