Performance comparison of hyperbolic paraboloidal shell footing with its flat counterpart

While traditional flat footings are commonly used in construction, hyperbolic paraboloidal shell footings present potential benefits in load distribution and settlement reduction. The study encompasses two primary aspects: the design of both footing types in accordance with Indian standard practices, followed by a comparative analysis of their performance utilizing finite element methodology. Performance comparison is carried out concentrating on vertical settlement, stress distribution, and the amount of concrete required under centric gravity loads. The hyperbolic paraboloidal shell footing was modeled with curved surfaces, and the underlying soil was treated as nonlinear using the Mohr-Coulomb yield criteria. The amount of concrete required for a hyperbolic paraboloidal shell footing is significantly less, calculated to be 0.61 times that of a flat footing.