A numerical method for laterally loaded piles

A numerical model for a laterally loaded pile in an elastic continuum is presented. The governing differential equations for vertical piles in a homogeneous and a layered soil are obtained by using variational calculus. Two parameters, k and t, are used in this approach to represent the elastic foundation, and an iterative technique is adopted to obtain a consistent energy solution. Both free and fixed headed piles have been considered. Two kinds of boundary conditions of practical interest at the pile tip, floating tip and clamped tip, are also considered. The proposed method has been validated by comparison of the results with those obtained by other available methods. Typical solutions are presented and recommendations are given for their use in design problems.