Abstract:
A finite element method, based on *p-y” curves, is suggested for the design of laterally
loaded piles. The pile is treated as an Euler-Bernoulli beam embedded in the soil, while the soil
medium is replaced by a system of continuous springs placed along the length. The potential of this
simple empirical approach for the accurate analysis of laterally loaded single piles, regardless of
whether the soil 1s homogeneous, nonhomogeneous, linear, nonlinear or layered and whether the pile
has an uniform or nonuniform cross-section is exemplified from a prediction of observed lateral
behaviour of the foundation piles of a portuguese bridge recently constructed.
