Sheet forming optimization based on least square support vector regression and intelligent sampling approach

Abstract

In this paper, a metamodel-based optimization method by integration of support vector regression (SVR) and intelligent sampling strategy is applied to optimize sheet forming design. Compared with other popular metamodeling techniques, the SVR is based on the principle of structure risk minimization (SRM) as opposed to the principle of the empirical risk minimization in conventional regression techniques. Thus, the accuracy and robust metamodel can be obtained. The intelligent sampling strategy is a kind of design of experiment (DOE) essentially. The characteristic of this method is to generate new sample automatically by responses of objective functions. Compared with traditional DOE methods, the number of samples isn’t constant according to different cases. Furthermore, the number of samples and size of design space can be well controlled according to the intelligent strategy. To minimize both objective functions of wrinkling, crack and thickness deformation efficiently, the proposed method is employed as a fast analysis tool to surrogate the time-consuming finite-element (FE) procedure in the iterations of optimization algorithm. An example is studied to illustrate the application of the approach proposed, and it is concluded that the proposed method is feasible for sheet forming optimization.