Design-by-analogy: A characteristic tree method for geotechnical engineering

Geotechnical engineers frequently use design-by-analogy methods to promote innovative design solutions, or reuse existing design schemes. However, this approach has not yet provided a means for comparing various potential project solutions quantitatively. Moreover, while geotechnical engineering has accumulated data in large quantities, the value of this historical data has not been exploited fully for the identification of useful analogies. To address these challenges, we proposed the characteristic tree analogy method and a key algorithm for calculating the similarity index between objects. On this basis, we developed a decision support system that makes comprehensive use of geotechnical engineering historical data. We applied the system successfully to the roadway support design for Liangjia coal mine. The results verified the applicability of the characteristic tree analogy method for realizing geotechnical engineering designs, making maximum use of historical data. This approach can be extended to other areas of geotechnical engineering that have large quantities historical data. •The characteristic tree analogy method was proposed.•An analogy algorithm was designed based on characteristic tree model.•A decision support system was developed based on the characteristic tree analogy method.•The system was used successfully for coal mine roadway support design.