Foundations on the earth support our daily lives in civilised society. Despite an important role, foundations are still mainly designed by assumptions relying on coefficients and outdated formulae because underground is invisible.

In contrast, the Press-in Method utilising a static load can shine the light of scientific knowledge on underground phenomena, since the behaviour of pressed-in piles is similar in mechanism to the pile-soil interaction supporting superstructures.

Thus under the name of Press-in Engineering, the IPA will encourage experts in relevant disciplines to search for the truth underground through the scientific investigation to integrate academic theory and practical observations.

The Members of IPA Establishment at Cambridge University in 2007

The press-in machine hydraulically controls pile movements and automatically measures valuable information during penetration. Analysing the measurements, the IPA will visualise the invisible subterranean, assure the quality of piles and establish a new construction paradigm composed of scientifically-demonstrated technologies to benefit the global environment and civilisation.

Main themes of the IPA are as follows;

• Clarification for unsolved issues on press-in technology
• Search for synergy between theory and site practice
• Setting up facilities for full scale experimentation
• Establishment of performance-related design method
• Establishment of technology to visualise subterranean
• Linkage between press-in machine and technology
• Scientific clarification of advantages of press-in piling

≫ Researches

The IPA will establish worldwide network of experts from various technical fields to enhance the Press-in Engineering.

Organizing the original workshops, seminars and grant award for unique and progressive researches, we provide all members with new understanding of theories and technologies.