An Empirical Comparison of Multiple Linear Regression and Artificial Neural Network for Concrete Dam Deformation Modelling

Deformation predicting models are essential for evaluating the health status of concrete dams. Nevertheless, the application of the conventional multiple linear regression model has been limited due to the particular structure, random loading, and strong nonlinear deformation of concrete dams. Conversely, the artificial neural network (ANN) model shows good adaptability to complex and highly nonlinear behaviors. This paper aims to evaluate the specific performance of the multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN) model in characterizing concrete dam deformation under environmental loads. In this study, four models, namely, the multiple linear regression (MLR), stepwise regression (SR), backpropagation (BP) neural network, and extreme learning machine (ELM) model, are employed to simulate dam deformation from two aspects: single measurement point and multiple measurement points, approximately 11 years of historical dam operation records. Results showed that the prediction accuracy of the multipoint model was higher than that of the single point model except the MLR model. Moreover, the prediction accuracy of the ELM model was always higher than the other three models. All discussions would be conducted in conjunction with a gravity dam study.