6Sensitivity analysis of laser cutting based on metamodeling approach

In this work, the utility of a metamodel in gaining valuable information relating to the optimization of a laser cutting process using a CW laser source is analyzed. The simulation itself is characterized by a high dimensional input parameter set. Each parameter has its own range, and thus the complete parameter sets with their ranges form the full parameter domain space. The quality criteria are analyzed and used as objective function to optimize the process. Simulation results can only help in the build-up of process understanding, if they can be presented in their entirety and together with their origin in the parameter domain. For this purpose a metamodeling concept is presented, which takes the results from simulations and generates a process map that clearly indicates the process domains. For gaining insights, the Elementary Effect method is applied to screen the important parameters that exhibit the greater impact on the process.