Stochastic Uncertainty Analysis of Integrated Blisk–Shaft Rotor Vibrations Using Artificial Neural Networks and Reduced-Order Models

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new method using neural networks and simplified models to analyze vibrations in aero-engine rotors while accounting for material uncertainties.

Contribution

A novel stochastic uncertainty analysis framework combining reduced-order models and artificial neural networks for efficient vibration prediction in blisk–shaft rotors.

Findings

The ROM-ANN approach significantly reduces computational costs while maintaining modal accuracy.

The method enables rapid prediction of natural frequencies under material uncertainties.

Global sensitivity analysis identifies dominant parameters affecting modal frequencies.

Abstract

Integrated blisk–shaft rotors represent a critical advancement in aero-engine design, offering enhanced structural integrity and weight reduction. However, their complex dynamic behavior under inherent material uncertainties poses significant challenges for reliable vibration prediction. This study presents a novel stochastic uncertainty analysis framework combining reduced-order finite element modeling and artificial neural networks (ANNs) to efficiently and accurately quantify the modal variability of integrated blisk–shaft rotors. A high-fidelity finite element model is first developed, followed by the construction and validation of a reduced-order model (ROM) to substantially decrease computational costs while preserving modal accuracy. Material parameter uncertainties are introduced, and corresponding natural frequencies are computed using the ROM. Subsequently, an ANN surrogate model is trained to capture the nonlinear mapping between uncertain input parameters and modal frequencies, enabling rapid prediction across the stochastic parameter space. The proposed approach is employed to perform comprehensive uncertainty propagation and global sensitivity analyses, identifying the dominant parameters influencing each modal frequency. Results demonstrate that the combined ROM-ANN methodology achieves high predictive accuracy with significantly reduced computational effort, offering an effective tool for uncertainty-aware dynamic analysis and design optimization of integrated blisk–shaft rotors. This work advances the integration of machine learning techniques with classical structural dynamics for robust aero-engine rotor design under uncertainty.

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