Use of artificial neural networks to predict 3-D elastic settlement of foundations on soils with inclined bedrock

Abstract

The application of the theory of elasticity for the calculation of foundation settlements has yielded equations that are well-established and consolidated in geotechnical standards and/or that are recommended for use. These equations are corrected by an influence factor in order to increase their precision and to encompass the existing complex geotechnical casuistry. The study presented herein utilizes neural networks to improve the determination of the influence factor (Iα), which considers the effect of a finite elastic half-space limited by the inclined bedrock under a foundation. The results obtained through the utilization of artificial neural networks (ANNs) demonstrate a notable improvement in the predicted values for the influence factor in comparison with those of existing analytical equations.