The embedded pile concept – Verification of an efficient tool for modelling complex deep foundations

Besides the widely used standard finite element approach, where piles are discretized by means of volume elements and the pile-soil interaction is modelled with interface elements, an attractive alternative to model deep foundations is discussed, namely the embedded pile concept. The substantial benefit of this approach is that piles can cross solid finite elements in an arbitrary direction and do not influence the finite element mesh, thus it is possible to model large pile groups. In this paper an improved formulation of this modelling technique is presented. The main enhancements are related to changed interface stiffnesses of the embedded pile and a modification of the so-called elastic region approach. A number of validation examples, using different types of constitutive models, demonstrate the capabilities and advantages of this advanced modelling technique.