Finite Difference Method (FDM)

QUESTION
I’m looking for literature (or guidance) about using the Finite Difference Method (FDM) to calculate the stresses in soil due to load at the surface.

I chose FDM since other methods like the Boussinesq equations, 2:1 Method etc. were not intended for layered soils. I understand that there are programs employing the Finite Element Method (FEM) to model such soils but FEM is rather complicated in itself, and many programs which use it are black-box.

My goal is to program the FDM to calculate stress distributions in a (macro-free) spreadsheet to get decent results quickly and easily.

REPLIES

aeoliantexan
Various closed-form solutions for multi-layer problems, rigid loaded areas, finite-thickness of compressible soil, etc are found:

“Elastic Solutions for Soil and Rock Mechanics” By Poulos and Davis.

You can find it and use it for free online.

http://research.engr.oregonstate.edu/usucger/PandD/PandD.htm

SOURCE
https://www.eng-tips.com/viewthread.cfm?qid=419382
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