| The similarities between the cone penetration test (CPT) and axially loaded foundation piles have led to the development of many different design approaches that directly relate the various in-situ readings to unit skin friction and unit end-bearing resistances. The simplest methods involve a single, often linear, proportionality coefficient that is entirely empirical and significantly biased towards the unique set of data used in its calibration. More recent CPT-based design methods have retained the direct use of cone resistance while also explicitly representing the physical processes that have been observed to most significantly influence pile capacity.;This thesis provides a state of practice summary of over 20 different CPT-based design methods used in geotechnical practice. Several existing case studies are reviewed to provide a context for discussion of the benefits and limitations of the different methods. The work concludes with recommendations and guidance to assist the geotechnical designer in navigating and selecting from the range of available methods. |
