Numerical Methods in

Structures and
Geotechnics
2023 / 2024
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING M.EC

ASSIGNMENT
(MANDATORY)

PROBLEM 1
INCREMENTAL STRESS and IMMEDIATE SETTLEMENTS IN AN
ELASTIC HOMOGENEOUS HALF-SPACE LOADED AT THE
SURFACE
1 - Objective
This work intends to familiarize the student with the linear analysis of straightforward
geotechnical problems using FEM. A second objective of this work is the evaluation of the
software performance as a function of the progressive increase of mesh refinement and
domain truncation.

2 – Description of the work

The work consists of the Finite Element Analysis of an elastic homogeneous half-space
loaded at the surface using RS2 software (or equivalent). For a given set of geometric and
material properties and load case (to be made available after the definition of the groups), the
following steps should be taken:
a) Compute the incremental stresses and compare them with analytical solutions. Using
the same numerical model, plot the “stress bulbs” and compare them with the
contour’s curves presented in the bibliography.
B x (L= )

qs [kN/m/m]

Homogeneous soil
E=? MPa
=?

b) Estimate the immediate settlement of the footing center, considering the following
conditions: i) infinitely flexible foundation; ii) rigid foundation. Compare the
numerical results with analytical/reference solutions.

1
 B/2

B Δqs
qs [kN/m ]2

Homogeneous soil
E=? MPa
=?

Additional work (optional): the students can improve their work with the evaluation of the
following steps:
- Regarding incremental stresses/“stress bulbs”:
a1) Evaluate the influence of a rigid lower boundary;
a2) Evaluate the influence of soil layering.
- Regarding elastic settlements calculations:
b1) Evaluate the influence of a rigid lower boundary;
b2) Estimate the immediate settlement of an infinite strip foundation.

3 – Elements to include in the final report

Each student or each group of two students should prepare a PDF document containing the
following components:
1- Introduction
2- Brief description of the problem
3- Description of the numerical model developed
4- Main results and discussion
5- Conclusions

4 – Bibliography
Rocscience-RS2 documentation and recommended bibliography provided in the course web
page in SIGARRA.

Matos Fernandes, M. (2020). Analysis and design of geotechnical structures. CRC Press
- Taylor & Francis Group.

5 – Delivery deadline
By 20th May 2024.