Optimization of beam parameters for coupling beam pile structure foundations under vertical loading

Abstract

The coupling beam pile structure is a new type of foundation for high‐rise buildings that can be easily constructed. The vertical load‐bearing characteristics of the coupling beam pile structure are examined using indoor model tests and numerical calculations to optimize the beam structure's parameters. The validity of the finite element model is then confirmed, and the beam structure's width, length, and stiffness are changed to examine their effects on the load‐bearing capacity. The results show that the load–settlement curve of the structure varies slightly, with a 45.10% increase in load‐carrying capacity compared to a pile group foundation for the same load, and that the coupling beam can support heavier loads while also distributing the tension of the loads. The width and length of the coupling beam are proportional to the load‐carrying capacity of the structure. The width of the coupling beam should be kept at 3.5 times the pile diameter since any wider width results in the “wall group effect,” which reduces the foundation's ability to support the weight. The coupling beam's short length, which should be kept above 4.5 times the pile diameter, can aid in reducing the “pile group effect.” The coupling beam stiffness can be changed according to the scenario in practice; there is no upper limit. The coupling beam stiffness is 5 times the reference value when it has the strongest force transmission capacity but has essentially little impact on the structure's load‐carrying capacity.