Surrogate model
Definition
A surrogate model is a fast approximation of an expensive simulation. It is built from a limited set of solver runs and learns to map design inputs, such as geometry or operating conditions, to the outputs engineers need. Teams use it to evaluate far more design candidates than the full simulation allows, then confirm the best ones with the solver.
Example
An aerospace team runs a few dozen CFD cases of a diffuser, fits a surrogate to the results, and uses it to scan thousands of shape variants. The handful that look best go back to the CFD solver for confirmation.
Sources
- Queipo et al., "Surrogate-based analysis and optimization," Progress in Aerospace Sciences, 2005, ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20050186653