Probabilistic Approach to Differential Settlements of Tripod Platform

Abstract

A probabilistic model for evaluation of differential settlements of a tripod platform founded on a clay deposit is formulated based on conventional methods for prediction of consolidation settlements. The model accounts for uncertainties in the loading and deformation properties of the clay and is based on a random field representation of the spatial fluctuation structure of these deformation properties. The practical application of the model is illustrated by presentation of calculations for an example platform. Probability calculations are performed by a first‐order reliability method as well as by directional simulation. Results from the use of these two different methods are compared, and a sensitivity study is included.