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A hybrid fuzzy zoning approach for 3-dimensional exploration geotechnical modeling: a case study at Semilan dam, southern Iran

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Abstract

This paper proposes a hybrid fuzzy zoning approach to compute the spatial variation and design the layout of additional samples during geotechnical investigation of an engineering structure. The geotechnical and geological data of Semilan dam site in southern Iran are utilized to evaluate this methodology. The optimal zoning of the site is found using the Fuzzy c-means (FCM) and comparison of results of various fuzzy clustering validity indices. The borehole samples are assigned to the selected zones according to their fuzzy membership degrees. In each zone, the geostatistical procedures are performed to model the 3-dimensional spatial variability and the related kriging variances. The estimated outputs of four zones are merged to generate the unit and reliable model. After fuzzifying the variables, the uncertainty index is defined as the function of rock quality designation (RQD), Lugeon, lithology index, index of dam structures, and estimation error. To model uncertainty in this site, the Mamdani fuzzy inference system (FIS) is used to establish the rule base relationship between the input and output variables. These outputs of uncertainty can be implemented as a guideline to design the layout of additional exploratory boreholes. In the studied area, five additional boreholes are suggested between the primary network.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mining and Metallurgical Engineering, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

    Amin Hossein Morshedy

  2. School of Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

    Seyed Ali Torabi

  3. School of Mining Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

    Hossein Memarian

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  1. Amin Hossein Morshedy
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  2. Seyed Ali Torabi
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  3. Hossein Memarian
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Correspondence to Amin Hossein Morshedy.

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Highlights•We propose a hybrid fuzzy zoning approach for 3-dimensional (3D) exploration geotechnical modeling.•Using the fuzzy clustering algorithm, the site is divided into optimal zones.•The zonal geostatistical technique is performed to model the 3D spatial distribution of the geotechnical and lithological variables with corresponding variances.•Fuzzy inference system is used to model uncertainty and layout of additional boreholes.

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Hossein Morshedy, A., Torabi, S.A. & Memarian, H. A hybrid fuzzy zoning approach for 3-dimensional exploration geotechnical modeling: a case study at Semilan dam, southern Iran. Bull Eng Geol Environ 78, 691–708 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-017-1133-1

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