Anti-Seismic Foundation that “Generates Income”
Piled foundations are commonly constructed to support loads from superstructures and are best suited to a weak soil or where the vertical load may not be suitable for pad foundations, strip foundations or raft foundations. Piled foundations are typically used for large structures, and in soil where excessive settlement can occur. Piled foundations are formed by long, slender, columnar elements typically made from steel or reinforced concrete. The fundamental function of the piles is only to support above superstructures and they remain in place over the lifespan of the superstructure. If ECO Parks or ECO Cycles are constructed beneath superstructures, they can also act as a piled foundation since their circular outer shaft is regarded as a large diameter pile. Thus, number of conventional piles can be dramatically reduced being replaced by the ECO Parks or ECO Cycles. This multi-functional foundation is called “Versatile Foundation” and is used not only for load supporting but also as income generating parking facilities.