US Patent 10343784 Methods for optimized engine balancing based on flight data

Methods for balancing aircraft turbofan engines using an artificial neural network and a global optimization algorithm, which are configured as a loop in which: the global optimization algorithm inputs to the artificial neural network data representing proposed changes in the balance weight attached to the engine; the artificial neural network outputs data estimating changes in engine vibration in response to input of the data representing the proposed changes in balance weight; and the global optimization algorithm outputs an optimum influence coefficient calculated using a minimum predicted change in engine vibration. This process can be repeated multiple times to derive a multiplicity of optimum influence coefficients which are used to determine an optimal balance solution for the engine. The balance weights attached to the engine are then reconfigured in accordance with the optimal balance solution.