Simplified methodology to evaluate the stability of a group of isolated caisson-type maritime infrastructures




Simplified methodology to evaluate the stability of a group of isolated caisson-type maritime infrastructures


With the recent development of finite element programs for 3D geotechnical analysis, and the concurrent reduction in computational costs, the number of 3D simulations has significantly increased. Despite the benefits of 3D simulations, they are often complex and require a greater amount of work than their 2D counterparts. The methodology presented simplifies the stability analysis of isolated maritime caissons (3D) into a 2D problem. Specifically, the problem considers a group of caissons separated by tens of meters and founded on soft soil. The methodology is based on adjusting the load applied on the caisson and the weight of the caissons. The stability results indicate a satisfactory agreement when compared to the same case simulated in 3D, as well as a significant reduction in computational costs. This methodology does not propose abandoning 3D evaluation of the problem; rather, it aims to provide a reliable preliminary result that can help in reducing the updates to the geometry (remeshing) of 3D simulations and the overall computational costs in the project.

Dani Tarrago; Antonio Gens


18th European Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ECSMGE2024)



A - New developments on structural design