Analytical solutions for the deformation calculation of compressive pile group incorporating reinforcement and shadowing effects

This study addresses the deficiency in existing research on the deformation calculation of compressive pile groups, which often overlooks the Reinforcement and Shadowing Effects (RSE) among piles. The concept of RSE within pile groups is redefined, and an in-depth investigation is conducted on the deformation calculation theory incorporating RSE. By leveraging the shear deformation mechanism of coaxial cylindrical shells and the principle of elastic superposition, a calculation method and corresponding analytical solution for the deformation of compressive piles considering RSE in pile groups are established and derived. The validity of the proposed calculation model is verified by comparing it with measured field data and finite element simulation results. This method overcomes the limitations of existing approaches that fail to adequately account for the mutual RSE among piles in a group, thereby more accurately reflecting the actual mechanical behavior of pile groups and enabling deformation analysis for large-scale pile groups. Furthermore, we investigate the relationship between key parameters, such as the length-diameter ratio, spacing-diameter ratio, pile-soil modulus ratio, and soil Poisson’s ratio, and the deformation of pile group through dimensional analysis and parameter influence studies. The proposed methodology not only enhances the accuracy of deformation predictions but also offers valuable insights for the design, construction, and monitoring of pile foundations in engineering practice.