Beam end-points connection

The program allows for three types of beam end-points connection:

	fixed	standard type
	hinge	(is used to introduce an internal hinge in between beams – locations with zero bending moment)
	foot

The foot is a special type of a beam end-point support in the soil. It is applicable for the beam end-point located in the soil body. When the fixed type of connection is assumed the beam and the soil element are connected at one point (a singular connection) often causing evolution of plastic strains in the surrounding soil and loss of convergence. The foot allows for more realistic redistribution of contact stresses and prevents the beam from "penetrating" into the soil, consequently stabilizing the convergence process. By default the foot length is assumed to be equal to the beam width – it can be arbitrarily adjusted (for example to enlarge the pile heel).

Connection (a) without (b) with a foot