Thermal process calculations using artificial neural network models

In this study, artificial neural network (ANN) models were evaluated as potential alternatives to conventional thermal process calculations methods. ANN is a computing system capable of processing information by its dynamic response to external inputs. ANNs learn from examples through iteration by adjusting the internal structure to match the pattern between input and output variables. Finite difference simulations, which are widely recognized as practical alternatives to experimental methods, were used to generate temperature profiles under thermal processing conditions for a wide range of can sizes and operating conditions. Time-temperature data so gathered were used to evaluate the heat penetration parameters, f(h), j(ch), f(c) and j(cc) as well as to compute process lethality and process time. These data were used for developing the ANN models. Selected Formula methods were also used to calculate the respective process times/process lethalities. The accuracy and ability of ANN models were compared with the Formula methods, both with respect to process time and process lethality computations using data from the finite difference model as the reference. Process calculation results from ANN model were comparable to, and sometimes better and more flexible than, the currently available Pham and Stumbo methods. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.