A Winkler model for suction caisson foundations in homogeneous and non-homogeneous linear elastic soil

Suction caisson foundations provide options for new foundation systems offshore structures, particularly wind turbine applications. During the design process, it is necessary to make reliable predictions of stiffness foundation, since this has an important influence on dynamic performance overall support structure. The characteristics structure, in turn, its fatigue life. This paper describes a thermodynamically consistent Winkler model, called OxCaisson, that delivers computationally efficient estimates caissons installed homogeneous and non-homogeneous linear elastic soil, general six degrees-of-freedom loading. OxCaisson capable delivering are comparable those computed with three-dimensional finite-element analysis, but at much lower computational cost. Therefore, proposed model suited applications where both speed accuracy essential, such as large-scale assessments farm structures. demonstrates can also be applied short, rigid monopile foundations.