Abstract
Pilings are essential components of bridges that are inserted into the ground to support imposed horizontal and vertical loads. During bridge design, engineers evaluate the conditions that affect the stability of the piles, like structure loads, wind, waves, and subsurface soil conditions. Unfortunately, there are limited, accurate methods for analyzing and modeling pilings in layered soil, which are critical for structural integrity and safety.
Researchers at Florida Atlantic University have developed an energy-based platform for assessing loading conditions of bridge piles in multi-layered soil. It uses the finite difference method (FDM) to model the non-linear behavior of soil layers near a piling to estimate deflection. The inventors have created a prototype of the system, and showed it performed similarly to other methods but faster computationally.
FAU seeks partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.
Benefit
Structural Integrity - Pilings can be designed based on the environmental conditionsSafety - Decreases risk of structural failureRapid - Faster analysis than other techniquesMarket Application
Design of bridges, floating docks, wind turbines, and oil/gas rigs
Brochure
