Calculations of spring constants for mat foundations and base slabs of box type

structures:
As per Winkler’s linear model of elastic soil, pressure deflection relation can be express by the following
equation-

p(x,y) = K x w(x,y)

Where, p = Pressure on soil

w = Soil deformation
K = Constant
For uni-direction above equation may be written as: p=Kxy
Or K = p/y …….(i)
Mr. Terzaghi termed constant ‘K’ as Modulus of sub grade reaction.
As per Terzaghi’s definition of co –efficient of sub grade reaction, Ks = q/y ……(ii)

Both the equations (i) & (ii) are identical and are used for calculating for elastic spring constant to assign
supports in various analysis tools and software.
Now, from spring-force formula: F = Kx

Force, F = Ky (for vertical direction)

Or qA = Ky
K = (q/y)A
K = (Ks)A …..using eqn. (ii)
Where, q = pressure
A = area under consideration
K = spring constant to be assign for support
y = deformation

For example,
Assumed base pressure = 150kN/m2
Spacing of reaction to be applied for supports = 0.5m
Assume, allowable settlement = 10mm
= 0.010m
Subgrade reaction Ks =150/0.01
= 15000kN/m3
Value of spring constants, K = (Ks)A
=15000 x 0.5 x 1 (assume width of model 1m)
K = 7500kN/m