Estimation of ultimate loads of eccentric-inclined loaded strip footings rested on sandy soils

Apart from the vertical axial loads, the footings of portal-framed buildings are often subjected to eccentric and eccentric-inclined loads caused by forces of earth pressures, earthquakes, water, wind, etc. Sometimes the corner of the column of these portal-framed buildings is located very close to the property line and hence subjected to eccentric and eccentric-inclined loading. The study presented herein describes the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) and multi-linear regression model for the prediction of ultimate loads of eccentric and eccentric-inclined loaded strip footings. The data used in running of network models have been obtained from extensive series of laboratory model tests. The parameters investigated are the eccentricity ratio, the load inclination angle, the footing size, and the density of sand soil. A total of 50 laboratory model tests with four different footings rested on loose and dense sand have been performed. The eccentricity ratio (e/B) and inclination angle (i) changed from 0 to 0.5 and 0° to 30° with vertical direction, respectively. The measured ultimate load response of the strip footings has been compared with available theoretical prediction. The results of the experimental study proved that the soil density, the load eccentricity, and the load inclination had considerable effects on the load of the strip footings, and the ANN model serves as simple and reliable tool for predicting the behavior of eccentric and eccentric-inclined loaded strip footings.