Domain-Separated Quantum Neural Network for Truss Structural Analysis with Mechanics-Informed Constraints.

Abstract

This study proposes an index-based quantum neural network (QNN) model, built upon a variational quantum circuit (VQC), as a surrogate framework for the static analysis of truss structures. Unlike coordinate-based models, the proposed QNN uses discrete member and node indices as inputs, and it adopts a separate-domain strategy that partitions the structure for parallel training. This architecture reflects the way nature organizes and optimizes complex systems, thereby enhancing both flexibility and scalability. Independent quantum circuits are assigned to each separate domain, and a mechanics-informed loss function based on the force method is formulated within a Lagrangian dual framework to embed physical constraints directly into the training process. As a result, the model achieves high prediction accuracy and fast convergence, even under complex structural conditions with relatively few parameters. Numerical experiments on 2D and 3D truss structures show that the QNN reduces the number of parameters by up to 64% compared to conventional neural networks, while achieving higher accuracy. Even within the same QNN architecture, the separate-domain approach outperforms the single-domain model with a 6.25% reduction in parameters. The proposed index-based QNN model has demonstrated practical applicability for structural analysis and shows strong potential as a quantum-based numerical analysis tool for future applications in building structure optimization and broader engineering domains.