Three-noded curved isoparametric soil interface element

A three-node curved isoparametric soil interface element is presented that models the vertical subgrade reaction and the shear stiffness of the soil, and the friction between the soil and the superstructure. The element is compatible with curved eight-or nine-noded isoparametric plane elements. It can be used to analyze planar structures on elastic media. Two verification problems, a curved shell on elastic foundation and a circular culvert under concentrated load, are given. Results are compared with both theoretical analysis and finite element analysis using a conventional beam on elastic foundation formulation. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.