This paper discusses the design, implementation and application of a simple microcomputer aided geotechnical design model for the preliminary design of foundations in industrial projects. The computer aided design of foundations in industrial projects can involve among other things, interpretation of large volumes of insitu and laboratory test data, various types of computerized geotechnical analysis, knowledge based selection of foundation systems and ground treatments, and finally storage of the design data and other related information for use during construction and for future use. The model described here, attempts to tackle the above aspects of foundation design in an integrated manner. The model consists of an interactive database and graphics module for boreholes, laboratory and field test data, a computerized geotechnical analysis module, a knowledge based expert system module and a design database module. The model has been developed with software that is easily available. The model is applied in the preliminary geotechnical design of foundations for steel storage tanks in an industrial project. It has been found to be a useful1 tool for preliminary geotechnical design purposes.

purchase the full-text of this paper (price £20)

go to the previous paper
go to the next paper
return to the table of contents
return to the book description
purchase this book (price £55 +P&P)