Empirical modelling of shear strength of RC deep beams by genetic programming

Abstract This paper investigates the feasibility of using genetic programming (GP) to create an empirical model for the complicated non-linear relationship between various input parameters associated with reinforced concrete (RC) deep beams and their ultimate shear strength. GP is a relatively new form of artificial intelligence, and is based on the ideas of Darwinian theory of evolution and genetics. The size and structural complexity of the empirical model are not specified in advance, but these characteristics evolve as part of the prediction. The engineering knowledge on RC deep beams is also included in the search process through the use of appropriate mathematical functions. The model produced by GP is constructed directly from a set of experimental results available in the literature. The validity of the obtained model is examined by comparing its response with the shear strength of the training and other additional datasets. The developed model is then used to study the relationships between the shear strength and different influencing parameters. The predictions obtained from GP agree well with experimental observations.