Optimization of a thin-walled element geometry using a system integrating neural networks and finite element method

Abstract

Artificial neural networks [ANNs] are an effective method for predicting and classifying variables. This article presents the application of an integrated system based on artificial neural networks and calculations by the finite element method [FEM] for the optimization of geometry of a thin-walled element of an air structure. To ensure optimal structure, the structure’s geometry was modified by creating side holes and ribs, also with holes. The main criterion of optimization was to reduce the structure’s weight at the lowest possible deformation of the tested object. The numerical tests concerned a fragment of an elevator used in the “Bryza” aircraft. The tests were conducted for networks with radial basis functions [RBF] and multilayer perceptrons [MLP]. The calculations described in the paper are an attempt at testing the FEM - ANN system with respect to design optimization.

Keywords

• artificial neural networks
• numerical modelling
• thin-walled element