Large-scale shaking table model tests and analyses of seismic soil-pile-superstructure interaction

Seismic soil-pile-superstructure interaction (SSPSI) is an important problem currently attracting considerable attention around the world. The lack of well-documented and well-instrumented full-scale case history data from actual earthquakes has motivated researchers to perform scale-model physical testing. Large-scale SSPSI model tests have been performed on the 6.1 m x 6.1 m U.C. Berkeley/PEER Center multi-directional shaking table, using a unique system that overcomes many of the problems associated with previous efforts. This paper focuses initially on the development of the l-g scale model testing program. Secondly, the numerical techniques used to model the observed system response are illustrated. The Beam on Nonlinear Winkler Foundation (BNWF) method was implemented in a finite element code (GeoFEAP) with dynamic capabilities, through the development of a new one-dimensional element capable of simulating a general non-linear p-y spring. The paper briefly illustrates the results obtained for single pile foundation systems with different inertial loading characteristics.