Investigation of spudcan-footprint interaction in clay with a novel implementation of a three-dimensional large deformation finite element method

The reinstallation of offshore jack-up rigs near existing seabed footprints left by previous jack-up operations is an emerging concern. In this thesis, the effect of footprint geometry on reinstallation induced inclined and eccentric jack-up foundation loads was systematically investigated using both geotechnical centrifuge testing and a novel implementation of the three dimensional 'remeshing and interpolation technique with small strain' (RITSS) simulation method. The state-of-the-art physical and numerical modelling techniques facilitated parametric studies that not only provided improved understanding to the underlying cause for the induced detrimental loads but also helped derive a predictive method that can ensure safer jack-up reinstallation operations.