Optimization of Load-transfer Functions for a Large-diameter Pile in Multi-layered Geological Conditions via a Stochastic Search Algorithm

Abstract

The paper presents the combination of the load transfer method (computational model) and the genetic algorithm (optimization model) for the automated inverse analysis of instrumented pile load tests. The output of this process are the input parameters governing the shape of the load-transfer functions and thus the prediction accuracy when the load-transfer method is used as a design tool for deep foundations. The optimization problem is converted into an unconstrained task by applying the static penalty approach. Two types of measurements are considered in a newly proposed objective function: the load-displacement curve monitored in a pile head and the axial force profiles along a pile derived from strain gauges. Firstly, the local sensitivity analysis via the Design of Experiments is carried out to identify the parameters of the genetic algorithm which significantly influences the rate of convergence during the optimization process. Subsequently, a fully automated inverse analysis of the loading test of the large-diameter bored pile in multilayered geological conditions is presented. The simultaneous combination of two instrumentation sources leads to a stable unique solution with a sufficient match between the prediction and measurements despite a larger number of unknown – optimized variables.