Probabilistic validation of a numerical computing program for shallow foundation typical structure calculations

The use of numerical computing programs for the calculation of large geotechnical works remains fragmentary because of the deficiencies still existing in the definition of their application area and their validation. The purpose of this study was to develop a “Code Error” estimating methodology, in order to take uncertainties, errors and other hazards into account in a process of program validation. The results show the influence of experimental dispersion on both numerical predictions of the materiel behaviour and numerical computations of the typical structure ; some simple and multiple regression models predict the different gaps between experimental and numerical results.