Foundation analysis and design of multi-storey structures with different computer programs

Computer programs (Sta4-Cad, İde-Cad, etc.) developed for the superstructure are generally used in the foundation design of buildings. It is assumed in these programs that soil is elastic and consists of an infinite number of independent springs. Foundation design is performed by just entering the allowable bearing capacity and the modulus of subgrade reaction in order to model the soil behaviour. However, the soil behaviour is elasto-plastic and much more complex than a simple spring behaviour. In this study, the foundation analysis and design of a multi-storey building were carried out by using Sta4-Cad and Plaxis 3D programs. Plaxis 3D is a finite element program developed for the analysis of geotechnical engineering problems. By comparing the results obtained from both programs, the reliability of the results of the programs used in the foundation design was investigated. Finally, in the study, the differences in terms of foundation engineering were examined by comparing the building earthquake regulations of Turkey which came into force in 2019 and the earthquake regulations of 2007.