A simplified nonlinear approach is proposed to study the behavior the pile group with flexible cap. In this paper, the cap is modeled as a thin plate with the finite element method. By employing the load transfer method, a nonlinear finite differential formulation for the analysis of a single pile is created. Pile groups are analyzed by the superposition principle by assuming a linearly elastic behavior. Based on solutions for the stress and displacement in layered elastic half space, the interaction factor between two piles is determined by considering the shielding effect between a receiver pile and the surrounding soil. In order to verify the validity of the proposed nonlinear analysis method, calculated results are compared with the numerical and test results from the literature. Good agreement is achieved, thus showing that the proposed method can provide a simple and useful tool for engineering design.
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