Dynamic response of embedded foundations: A hybrid approach (Q1090526)

A hybrid approach is presented to obtain the dynamic response of foundations of arbitrary shape embedded in a layered viscoelastic half- space when subjected to external forces and elastic waves. The approach is based on the use of Green's functions for the half-space continuum combined with a finite element discretization of the finite portion of soil excavated for the foundation. Compared with direct or indirect boundary integral equation methods this particular combination permits a reduction of the number of calculations of Green's functions at the expense of additional finite element calculations. The validity and accuracy of the hybrid approach is investigated by comparison with solutions obtained by other methods for axisymmetric foundations embedded in a uniform viscoelastic half-space and in a layered medium. It is found that the proposed hybrid approach with an appropriate discretization of the soil excavated for the foundation can achieve excellent accuracy.