Multi-objective design and optimization of squeezed branch pile based on orthogonal test

Area of Science:

• Civil Engineering
• Geotechnical Engineering
• Structural Mechanics

Background:

• Squeezed branch piles are a novel civil engineering solution with unique structural and mechanical properties.
• These piles exhibit superior resistance to compressive, uplift, and horizontal loads.
• Geometric parameters, particularly disc features, significantly influence pile bearing capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the bearing performance of squeezed branch piles under varying geometric parameters.
• To identify the key influencing factors on bearing capacity and determine their optimal combination.
• To provide practical guidance for the engineering design of squeezed branch piles.

Main Methods:

• Orthogonal experimental design was employed to study the influence of geometric parameters.
• Finite element software (ABAQUS) was used to simulate test conditions and gather data.
• Multi-objective optimization, including range analysis and various weighting methods, was applied.

Main Results:

• The study identified the number of discs, disc diameter, squeeze angle, and spacing as critical factors.
• Range analysis determined the weight ranking of these influencing factors.
• Six optimization objectives were analyzed, including performance and economic efficiency for different load types.

Conclusions:

• The optimal combination for squeezed branch piles was determined to be 4 discs, a disc diameter of 2.5D, a disc squeeze angle of 35°, and a disc spacing of 3D.
• This optimal configuration balances compressive, uplift, and horizontal load resistance with economic efficiency.
• The findings offer valuable insights for the practical application and design optimization of squeezed branch piles.