Physics-informed machine learning for moving load problems

Abstract This paper presents a new approach to simulate forward and inverse problems of moving loads using physics-informed machine learning (PIML). Physics-informed neural networks (PINNs) utilize the underlying physics of moving load problems and aim to predict the deflection of beams and the magnitude of the loads. The mathematical representation of the moving load considered involves a Dirac delta function, to capture the effect of the load moving across the structure. Approximating the Dirac delta function with PINNs is challenging because of its instantaneous change of output at a single point, causing difficulty in the convergence of the loss function. We propose to approximate the Dirac delta function with a Gaussian function. The incorporated Gaussian function physical equations are used in the physics-informed neural architecture to simulate beam deflections and to predict the magnitude of the load. Numerical results show that PIML is an effective method for simulating the forward and inverse problems for the considered model of a moving load.