CHAPTER V

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The research was conducted to develop an accurate model for prediction of load slab-deflection
using Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) Analysis and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The
study was used to evaluate the feasibility of using a branch of statistical learning known as
multiple linear regression analysis and a branch of machine learning known as artificial neural
network to predict load-deflection of reinforced concrete slabs. The study used the properties of
the slabs such as slab thickness (TS), effective depth (DS), and span length (LS); concrete compressive
strength (fCC), tensile strength (fCT), and modulus of elasticity (EC); steel yield strength (fY) and modulus
of elasticity (ES); ultimate load (PACT) as input variables ; and maximum deflection (δMAX) as output
variable.

Considering the complexity of the relationship between the inputs and the output, the results
obtained by the prediction models are highly encouraging and satisfactory. The results showed
that the ANN model has a very high determination coefficient (R2) between the predicted and the
actual values of maximum load-deflection of reinforced concrete slabs with a value of 0.9956
while MLR obtained an acceptable value of 0.8024. The values of R using ANN were found as
0.98047 and 0.998 while MLR yields the values of R as 0.8198 and 0.8960 in the training phase
and testing phase, respectively. Also, the MAPE values were 4.241% for ANN and 24.105% for
MLR. The values for MSE using ANN were found as 0.002 and 1.259 in the training phase and
testing phase, respectively while MLR obtained MSE value of 68.137.

These values support the applicability of the proposed prediction model. However, the ANN
model yielded closer values to the measured results as compared with the MLR model. In the
study, well-trained ANN model has been proved to be a sufficient and successful tool for
modelling the prediction of maximum deflection of reinforced concrete slabs. Also, the results
showed that the predictions made with artificial neural networks showed better results than MLR
and thus thought as more efficient way for a prediction approach.
Thus, the application of the model can be used as a basis of providing rapid assessment on
predicting actual load-deflection of reinforced concrete slabs. Such predictions can be used as
preliminary basis of engineers to design particular slab with accordance to the mathematical
model provided and will also help to maximize structure’s lifespan. Also, the researchers have
developed an artificial neural network model of load-deflection prediction of reinforced concrete
slabs that is sufficiently accurate to be of use to practicing engineers, and to overcome the speed
problem of existing traditional methods of analysis, thus facilitating the search for an optimal
design solution. Hence, the study was found to be a quick and reliable alternative to lengthy
experimental testing and detailed calculations.
 CHAPTER VI

RECOMMENDATIONS

While the effectiveness of the artificial neural network has been decisively proven by the results
obtained by the study, further studies could serve to improve its usefulness. The addition of data
results from a greater number of reinforced concrete slabs with a wider variety of properties and
loading conditions will most likely increase the accuracy of the neural network models already
developed. These neural networks could be expanded to predict results for a wider variety of
reinforced concrete structural elements such as columns, shear walls, and beams. From this, a
general comprehensive tool for the prediction of the maximum deflection of reinforced concrete
could then be developed for general use by structural engineers as a quick and reliable alternative
to existing methods of prediction.
 PREDICTION
MODELLING

MODEL A MODEL B

STATISTICAL
MACHINE LEARNING
LEARNING

MULTIPLE ARTIFICIAL
LOGISTIC POLYNOMIAL GENETIC FUZZY LOGIC
LINEAR NEURAL
REGRESSION REGRESSION ALGORITHM ALGORITHM
REGRESSION NETWORK

INPUT INPUT

PROCESS PROCESS

OUTPUT OUTPUT

IS MSE < 5% IS MSE < 5%

AND R > 95%? AND R > 95%?
TESTING AND
VALIDATION

LOWEST MSE, RMSE &

MAD, HIGHEST R2, R, &
MAPE

PREDICTION MODEL