Artificial neural network-based multiple-input multiple-output metamodel for prediction of design parameters for a high-speed rail viaduct

Abstract

The prediction of the design parameters of short to medium-span supported bridges in critical locations (such as canal/road crossings) under the action of high-speed trains has been investigated in this article. An artificial neural network (ANN)-based MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output) metamodels is proposed in conjunction with the semi-analytical framework of simply-supported bridges. Three cases, namely single moving load, series of moving loads at equal spacing (HSLM-B), and as per conventional train configuration (HSLM-A) recommended in Eurocode1: EN 1991-2 (2003), are considered. The prime novelty of the article is to develop a dimensionless semi-analytical framework to train and validate a MIMO metamodel implementing ANN for predicting the multiple dynamic responses of bridges under high-speed loads. The dependency of the maximum dynamic responses, that is, displacement, shear force, and bending moment, on the governing parameters (structural and loading) have been elucidated using Pearson's correlation matrix for the three different train configurations. Further, the robustness and efficiency of the best-fitted metamodels have been compared, and a user interface has been developed for ease of implementation. This platform evaluates the responses such as displacement, shear force, bending moment, and structural safety confirming the standards of Eurocode EN 1990:2002 + A1:2005 (E).