Optimizing shallow foundation design: A machine learning approach for bearing capacity estimation over cavities

The presence of excavations or cavities beneath the foundations of a building can have a significant impact on their stability and cause extensive damage. Traditional methods for calculating the bearing capacity and subsidence of foundations over cavities can be complex and time-consuming, particularly when dealing with conditions that vary. In such situations, machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) techniques provide effective alternatives. This study concentrates on constructing a prediction model based on the performance of ML and DL algorithms that can be applied in real-world settings. The efficacy of eight algorithms, including Regression Analysis, k-Nearest Neighbor, Decision Tree, Random Forest, Multi-variate Regression Spline, Artificial Neural Network, and Deep Neural Network, was evaluated. Using a Python-assisted automation technique integrated with the PLAXIS 2D platform, a dataset containing 272 cases with eight input parameters and one target variable was generated. In general, the DL model performed better than the ML models, and all models, except the regression models, attained outstanding results with an R2 greater than 0.90. These models can also be used as surrogate models in reliability analysis to evaluate failure risks and probabilities.