Structural Optimisation of Hyperbolic Paraboloid Shell Foundation

Abstract

Foundations are the structural elements used to transfer super structural loads to ground without failure. It is important that the foundation should be strong enough to resist all kinds of failures. Shell foundations are proved to be performing much better than conventional flat footings especially when transmitting heavy superstructural loads to poor bearing soil. Shells have larger stiffness and strength compared with plane surface structural elements which ensure minimum material and maximum structural performance. So, it is more economical where the materials are scarce and overpriced. Different types of shells are used in foundations such as conical shell, triangular shell, pyramidal shell, hyperbolic paraboloid shell, cylindrical shell inverted dome, elliptic paraboloid, inverted spherical shell etc. In this research the structural performance of hyperbolic paraboloid (hypar) shell foundation is investigated using finite element software. The thickness of the shell is optimised based on the stress distribution behaviour of hypar foundation.