Abstract
The scaled boundary finite-element method uses a semi-analytical technique to solve the non-homogenous partial differential equations governing the elastostatics of two and three-dimensional continua. When compared to the traditional finite element method, the scaled boundary finite-element method has been shown to provide improved accuracy as well as computational time savings, while retaining the ability to model complex geometries and boundary conditions. This paper presents a brief introduction to the scaled boundary finite-element method and outlines the incorporation of non-homogeneous elasticity into the method. The variation of Young's modulus (E) with depth (z) is assumed to take the form E= mEzα, where m E is a constant and α is the non-homogeneity parameter. Results are presented and compared to analytical solutions for the settlement profile of rigid and flexible circular footings on an elastic half space with α varying between zero and one. Future applications of the scaled boundary finite-element method to offshore geotechnical problems are also discussed.