Interpreting Plate Reaction Results

[MCurry]

Hello. I'm using Risa 3D. I've modelled a large footing under a 5 story concrete stair tower that provides lateral resistance to EQ forces. I'm a bit green using RISA 3D (or other finite element software for that matter).
I've modelled the footing as Plates, 3 feet thick, and generated spring supports at the nodes. If my typical plate size is about 1 foot square, and the vertical node reaction at a node common to four plates is 0.3 kips, am I correct to interpret a soil bearing pressure of 300 pounds per square foot?

Thanks in advance to whoever is able to help!

 

[JAE]

Generally, yes. The spring reaction over the area that it supports is the correct interpretation of the bearing pressure...assuming the model is modeled sufficiently similar to real-world conditions.

 

[MCurry]

Thanks JAE! As a one man office, I need a reality check from time to time. I'm glad you're here.

 

[JStephen]

But note that normally a soils report will give allowable bearing based on average bearing, not calculated peak bearing at a point like that.