Finite element model selection using Particle Swarm Optimization

TL;DR

This paper applies particle swarm optimization to select the most suitable finite element model from a set of candidates, optimizing model parameters based on specific criteria.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of PSO for FEM model selection, including model representation and objective functions, demonstrating its effectiveness on a structural system.

Findings

PSO effectively identifies optimal FEM with minimal parameters.

Two objective functions compare PSO performance.

PSO adapts to model parameter variations.

Abstract

This paper proposes the application of particle swarm optimization (PSO) to the problem of finite element model (FEM) selection. This problem arises when a choice of the best model for a system has to be made from set of competing models, each developed a priori from engineering judgment. PSO is a population-based stochastic search algorithm inspired by the behaviour of biological entities in nature when they are foraging for resources. Each potentially correct model is represented as a particle that exhibits both individualistic and group behaviour. Each particle moves within the model search space looking for the best solution by updating the parameters values that define it. The most important step in the particle swarm algorithm is the method of representing models which should take into account the number, location and variables of parameters to be updated. One example structural system is used to show the applicability of PSO in finding an optimal FEM. An optimal model is defined as the model that has the least number of updated parameters and has the smallest parameter variable variation from the mean material properties. Two different objective functions are used to compare performance of the PSO algorithm.