Vertical response of single piles: transient analysis by time-domain BEM

Abstract

The transient dynamic response of single piles in a layered half-space under a time-dependent vertical force is analyzed by an FEM-BEM coupling approach. The pile is modeled by FEM and the layered half-space is modeled by a general cylindrical coordinates time-domain BEM. Only one-dimensional discretization is necessary on the boundaries of the three-dimensional layered half-space by virtue of the Fourier theory, while the pile shaft can be discretized as a one-dimensional elastic beam. The compatibility and equilibrium conditions between pile shaft and soil layers are employed to assemble respective equations into one. Fairly good agreement between two unknown solutions and the current approach is found. Parametric studies reveal the influences of several dimensionless factors, such as Ep/Es, l/r0, ρ{variant}p/ρ{variant}s and νs. The effect of soil layering and the support condition of the pile tip is also reported by numerical examples. © 1993.