Details are given of a caisson yield function and its implementation into a commercial computerprogram. Preliminary caisson geotechnical designs are required for two foundation types, namely support andanchor foundations. Both have different design challenges: for top loaded support foundations, it is possibleto directly obtain optimum geometries (i.e. factored loads equal factored resistances) for given VHM loads.Other modes analyse all load cases to find those with low Factors of Safety. The main anchor mode findsoptimum caisson lug level and embedded lengths, using chain profiles computed from seafloor loads. Othermodes assess design robustness and generic design. Using a yield function obviates the general need for morecomplex numerical analyses, and facilitates rapid optimisation and sensitivity analyses.
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