This study employs finite element simulations to analyze the seepage field distribution during the overall sinking and leveling conditions of three complex configurations: hexagonal bucket
clustered bucket
and annular interlocking bucket. The seepage characteristics are investigated
and formulas for calculating critical differential pressures during sinking and leveling conditions are established. And size effect validations of the formulas are conducted. The results indicate that the differential pressure for leveling decreases rapidly with increasing tilt angles for all three bucket types. The proposed methods for calculating critical differential pressures due to seepage in these complex bucket foundations exhibit an error range of approximately ±5% within engineering scales.
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