On Some Basic Concepts of Genetic Algorithms As a Meta-Heuristic Method for Solving of Optimization Problems

Total Page:16

File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb

On Some Basic Concepts of Genetic Algorithms As a Meta-Heuristic Method for Solving of Optimization Problems Journal of Software Engineering and Applications, 2011, 4, 482-486 doi:10.4236/jsea.2011.48055 Published Online August 2011 (http://www.SciRP.org/journal/jsea) On Some Basic Concepts of Genetic Algorithms as a Meta-Heuristic Method for Solving of Optimization Problems Milena Bogdanović Teacher Training Faculty, University in Niš, Vranje, Serbia. Email: [email protected], [email protected] Received June 27th, 2011, revised July 25th, 2011, accepted August 1st, 2011. ABSTRACT The genetic algorithms represent a family of algorithms using some of genetic principles being present in nature, in order to solve particular computational problems. These natural principles are: inheritance, crossover, mutation, sur- vival of the fittest, migrations and so on. The paper describes the most important aspects of a genetic algorithm as a stochastic method for solving various classes of optimization problems. It also describes the basic genetic operator se- lection, crossover and mutation, serving for a new generation of individuals to achieve an optimal or a good enough solution of an optimization problem being in question. Keywords: Genetic Algorithm, Individuals, Genetic Operator, Selection, Crossover, Mutation 1. Introduction similar principles, such as: evolutionary strategies, The word heuristic is derived from the Greek word simulated annealing, εύρίεσκω meaning I find. From here it can immediately genetic programming. that the heuristic algorithms incurred in fact from ex- Evolutionary strategies, developed in Germany in the perimentation in order to obtain a satisfactory solution. sixties of the last century, have a lot of common features An important feature of heuristic algorithms is that can with a genetic algorithm. It is difficult to determine the approximately, but still good enough to solve the prob border between the two approaches having in mind their lems of exponential complexity. However, it should be various variants. Both methods work with a population of stressed the problem heuristic algorithms may not lead to solutions over which are implemented defined operations a satisfactory solution, and for some of problems, heuris- which periodically repeat. The phases of this process tic algorithms give relatively poor results. having a model in the natural evolutionary flows are Genetic algorithms are robust and adaptive methods called generations. which in addition to other fields of application can be Simulated annealing is a process having found a basis used for solving combinatorial optimization problems. in the thermodynamic motion of matter to the energy- The central concept in the description of genetic algo- minimum in a gradual lowering of temperature as a pa- rithms is a population of individuals, which is usually rameter of the system. The method works with a single between 10 and 200; each individual represents a possi- solution from which in the each iteration is required a ble solution in the search space for a problem (the space “neighboring” solution. An old solution is always re- of all solutions). placed with a new if one if it came to satisfying of crite- These algorithms can be used for solving of various ria and it is possible a better solution to be replaced by a classes of problems because they are of general nature. worse one is better if certain of stochastic are satisfied By mode of action, genetic algorithms are among the regulating the “temperature” of the system. A higher methods of guided random search techniques of space temperature gives a higher probability that a new, even a solutions in looking for a global optimum. In the same worse solution, to replace the old one. The process starts group can be classified several other methods based on from a certain temperature, which allows a relatively Copyright © 2011 SciRes. JSEA On Some Basic Concepts of Genetic Algorithms as a Meta-Heuristic Method for Solving of Optimization Problems 483 high probability of acceptance (more than 50%), this defined so that individuals do not create new solutions parameter to decrease exponentially until the motion be- that are impossible, because in this way significantly comes almost deterministic. reduce the performance of genetic algorithm. Genetic programming is an automated optimization No matter what kind of genetic algorithm works, the process of developing computer programs, whose pur- algorithm has the following parameters: population size, pose is solving most complex problems in the field of number of generations or iterations and the probability of computing, but also the problems that we encounter mutation. For generations the genetic algorithm should every day. The concept is based on ideas drawn from the also be mentioned, and the likelihood of hybridization. In general theory of genetic algorithms and other evolution- eliminative genetic algorithm, instead of crossing prob- ary methods. Simply put, the ultimate goal of genetic ability, specifies the number of individuals for elimina- programming (as product) is a universal computer pro- tion. gram that finds solutions to problems as input data. 2. Coding and Fitness Functions The genetic programming can be accessed in several different ways and from different perspectives, such as As the most important aspects of a genetic algorithm, from linear—most of them are universal access to a point out the encryption functions (coding) and adapta- computer program as a formal tree in the context of bility (fitness), which is very important to be well graph theory. In fact, any computer program can be adapted to the nature of a particular problem. It has been viewed as a tree or forest trees (in the broad sense), said that the usual binary encoding or of a higher cardi- where the internal tree nodes have the role of the opera- nality alphabet. Preferably the connection between the tor (or function of a number of variables), and leaves the genetic codes and solutions to the problem is an injective role of operands. In this case, a set of operators (function and onto mapping. Then it is possible that the application set, F) and operands (terminal set, T) are predefined sets of genetic operators in a certain generation get called of the final. incorrect individual, or the individuals whose genetic In accordance with the general theory of evolutionary code does not correspond to any solution. Overcoming algorithms, we can say that the role of chromosomal ge- this problem is possible in several ways. One possibility netic programming with non-linear structures play graphs is to allocate any such individuals as the adaptation of the and trees. It is the properties of trees as the strict mathe- function is zero, so that operators are already using such matical objects, such as a simple recursive tour, sealed selection to eliminate individuals. This approach proved the developmental course of genetic programming in a suitable only when the ratio of the number of incorrect pronounced direction. and correct individuals in the population is too large, Genetic algorithms simulate the natural evolutionary which in practice often not the case. It is possible, how- process. For the evolutionary process can be determined ever, the incorrect inclusion of individuals in the popula- as follows: tion, so that any unfair individuals assigned the value of • there is a population of individuals; penalty function. The goal is that individuals and unfair • some individuals are better (better adapted to the given a chance to participate in the crossing, but to be environment); discriminated against in relation to the correct individual. • better individuals have a higher probability of sur- Should take into account that the value of penalty func- vival and reproduction; tion balance, because too small values can lead to the fact • properties of individuals are written in the chromo- that some of the genetic algorithm codes incorrect decal- somes using the genetic code; rations of the solution, while, on the other hand, exces- • children inherit the properties (characteristics) of sive punishment can cause loss of useful information parents; from the incorrect individuals. There is another way to • Mutation can affect the individual. solve this problem—and it is unfair to individual repair The individuals represent potential solutions for ge- to make them correct or incorrect that each individual is netic algorithm, while the environment is the objective the correct replacement. function. Calculating the function of adaptation is possible in All data having indicates an individual, are written in a several ways. Some of these methods are direct down- single chromosome. In the most general case, the chromo- load, linear scaling, interval scaling, sigma clipping, etc. some can be any data structure who describes the char- The simplest way of measuring the function of adap- acteristics of one individual. The chromosome represents tation is a direct download, which means that the value a possible solution to a given problem for the genetic function for the adaptation of a specimen is taken, its algorithm. It is necessary to define the genetic operators value of objective function. However, in practice this for each data structure. These genetic operators should be approach gives poor results. Copyright © 2011 SciRes. JSEA 484 On Some Basic Concepts of Genetic Algorithms as a Meta-Heuristic Method for Solving of Optimization Problems The fitness for some individuals is calculated as a lin- 4. Crossover ear function of the objective function values and indi- viduals in the case of linear scaling. For this, there are Process of exchanging genetic material between indi- different approaches to choosing coefficients that accu- viduals of parents, in order to form new offspring indi- rately determine the linear function. viduals is performed by the operator crossover. The most scaling functions in the unit interval adaptation looks common type of operators are crossing one-position, at the interval [0, 1], with the best individual has the two-position, multi-position, and uniform crossover, and adaptability which is equal to 1, and the lowest adjusted 0.
Recommended publications
  • Symbolic Computation Using Grammatical Evolution
    Symbolic Computation using Grammatical Evolution Alan Christianson Department of Mathematics and Computer Science South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Rapid City, SD 57701 [email protected] Jeff McGough Department of Mathematics and Computer Science South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Rapid City, SD 57701 [email protected] March 20, 2009 Abstract Evolutionary Algorithms have demonstrated results in a vast array of optimization prob- lems and are regularly employed in engineering design. However, many mathematical problems have shown traditional methods to be the more effective approach. In the case of symbolic computation, it may be difficult or not feasible to extend numerical approachs and thus leave the door open to other methods. In this paper, we study the application of a grammar-based approach in Evolutionary Com- puting known as Grammatical Evolution (GE) to a selected problem in control theory. Grammatical evolution is a variation of genetic programming. GE does not operate di- rectly on the expression but following a lead from nature indirectly through genome strings. These evolved strings are used to select production rules in a BNF grammar to generate algebraic expressions which are potential solutions to the problem at hand. Traditional approaches have been plagued by unrestrained expression growth, stagnation and lack of convergence. These are addressed by the more biologically realistic BNF representation and variations in the genetic operators. 1 Introduction Control Theory is a well established field which concerns itself with the modeling and reg- ulation of dynamical processes. The discipline brings robust mathematical tools to address many questions in process control.
    [Show full text]
  • Genetic Algorithm: Reviews, Implementations, and Applications
    Paper— Genetic Algorithm: Reviews, Implementation and Applications Genetic Algorithm: Reviews, Implementations, and Applications Tanweer Alam() Faculty of Computer and Information Systems, Islamic University of Madinah, Saudi Arabia [email protected] Shamimul Qamar Computer Engineering Department, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia Amit Dixit Department of ECE, Quantum School of Technology, Roorkee, India Mohamed Benaida Faculty of Computer and Information Systems, Islamic University of Madinah, Saudi Arabia How to cite this article? Tanweer Alam. Shamimul Qamar. Amit Dixit. Mohamed Benaida. " Genetic Al- gorithm: Reviews, Implementations, and Applications.", International Journal of Engineering Pedagogy (iJEP). 2020. Abstract—Nowadays genetic algorithm (GA) is greatly used in engineering ped- agogy as an adaptive technique to learn and solve complex problems and issues. It is a meta-heuristic approach that is used to solve hybrid computation chal- lenges. GA utilizes selection, crossover, and mutation operators to effectively manage the searching system strategy. This algorithm is derived from natural se- lection and genetics concepts. GA is an intelligent use of random search sup- ported with historical data to contribute the search in an area of the improved outcome within a coverage framework. Such algorithms are widely used for maintaining high-quality reactions to optimize issues and problems investigation. These techniques are recognized to be somewhat of a statistical investigation pro- cess to search for a suitable solution or prevent an accurate strategy for challenges in optimization or searches. These techniques have been produced from natu- ral selection or genetics principles. For random testing, historical information is provided with intelligent enslavement to continue moving the search out from the area of improved features for processing of the outcomes.
    [Show full text]
  • Accelerating Real-Valued Genetic Algorithms Using Mutation-With-Momentum
    CORE Metadata, citation and similar papers at core.ac.uk Provided by University of Tasmania Open Access Repository Accelerating Real-Valued Genetic Algorithms Using Mutation-With-Momentum Luke Temby, Peter Vamplew and Adam Berry Technical Report 2005-02 School of Computing, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 100, Hobart This report is an extended version of a paper of the same title presented at AI'05: The 18th Australian Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence, Sydney, Australia, 5-9 Dec 2005. Abstract: In a canonical genetic algorithm, the reproduction operators (crossover and mutation) are random in nature. The direction of the search carried out by the GA system is driven purely by the bias to fitter individuals in the selection process. Several authors have proposed the use of directed mutation operators as a means of improving the convergence speed of GAs on problems involving real-valued alleles. This paper proposes a new approach to directed mutation based on the momentum concept commonly used to accelerate the gradient descent training of neural networks. This mutation-with- momentum operator is compared against standard Gaussian mutation across a series of benchmark problems, and is shown to regularly result in rapid improvements in performance during the early generations of the GA. A hybrid system combining the momentum-based and standard mutation operators is shown to outperform either individual approach to mutation across all of the benchmarks. 1 Introduction In a traditional genetic algorithm (GA) using a bit-string representation, the mutation operator acts primarily to preserve diversity within the population, ensuring that alleles can not be permanently lost from the population.
    [Show full text]
  • Solving a Highly Multimodal Design Optimization Problem Using the Extended Genetic Algorithm GLEAM
    Solving a highly multimodal design optimization problem using the extended genetic algorithm GLEAM W. Jakob, M. Gorges-Schleuter, I. Sieber, W. Süß, H. Eggert Institute for Applied Computer Science, Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe, P.O. 3640, D-76021 Karlsruhe, Germany, EMail: [email protected] Abstract In the area of micro system design the usage of simulation and optimization must precede the production of specimen or test batches due to the expensive and time consuming nature of the production process itself. In this paper we report on the design optimization of a heterodyne receiver which is a detection module for opti- cal communication-systems. The collimating lens-system of the receiver is opti- mized with respect to the tolerances of the fabrication and assembly process as well as to the spherical aberrations of the lenses. It is shown that this is a highly multimodal problem which cannot be solved by traditional local hill climbing algorithms. For the applicability of more sophisticated search methods like our extended Genetic Algorithm GLEAM short runtimes for the simulation or a small amount of simulation runs is essential. Thus we tested a new approach, the so called optimization foreruns, the results of which are used for the initialization of the main optimization run. The promising results were checked by testing the approach with mathematical test functions known from literature. The surprising result was that most of these functions behave considerable different from our real world problems, which limits their usefulness drastically. 1 Introduction The production of specimen for microcomponents or microsystems is both, mate- rial and time consuming because of the sophisticated manufacturing techniques.
    [Show full text]
  • Arxiv:1606.00601V1 [Cs.NE] 2 Jun 2016 Keywords: Pr Solving Tasks
    On the performance of different mutation operators of a subpopulation-based genetic algorithm for multi-robot task allocation problems Chun Liua,b,∗, Andreas Krollb aSchool of Automation, Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications No 10, Xitucheng Road, 100876, Beijing, China bDepartment of Measurement and Control, Mechanical Engineering, University of Kassel M¨onchebergstraße 7, 34125, Kassel, Germany Abstract The performance of different mutation operators is usually evaluated in conjunc- tion with specific parameter settings of genetic algorithms and target problems. Most studies focus on the classical genetic algorithm with different parameters or on solving unconstrained combinatorial optimization problems such as the traveling salesman problems. In this paper, a subpopulation-based genetic al- gorithm that uses only mutation and selection is developed to solve multi-robot task allocation problems. The target problems are constrained combinatorial optimization problems, and are more complex if cooperative tasks are involved as these introduce additional spatial and temporal constraints. The proposed genetic algorithm can obtain better solutions than classical genetic algorithms with tournament selection and partially mapped crossover. The performance of different mutation operators in solving problems without/with cooperative arXiv:1606.00601v1 [cs.NE] 2 Jun 2016 tasks is evaluated. The results imply that inversion mutation performs better than others when solving problems without cooperative tasks, and the swap- inversion combination performs better than others when solving problems with cooperative tasks. Keywords: constrained combinatorial optimization, genetic algorithm, ∗Corresponding author. Email addresses: [email protected] (Chun Liu), [email protected] (Andreas Kroll) August 13, 2018 mutation operators, subpopulation, multi-robot task allocation, inspection problems 1.
    [Show full text]
  • Analyzing the Performance of Mutation Operators to Solve the Travelling Salesman Problem
    Analyzing the Performance of Mutation Operators to Solve the Travelling Salesman Problem Otman ABDOUN, Jaafar ABOUCHABAKA, Chakir TAJANI LaRIT Laboratory, Faculty of sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra, Morocco [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] Abstract. The genetic algorithm includes some parameters that should be adjusted, so as to get reliable results. Choosing a representation of the problem addressed, an initial population, a method of selection, a crossover operator, mutation operator, the probabilities of crossover and mutation, and the insertion method creates a variant of genetic algorithms. Our work is part of the answer to this perspective to find a solution for this combinatorial problem. What are the best parameters to select for a genetic algorithm that creates a variety efficient to solve the Travelling Salesman Problem (TSP)? In this paper, we present a comparative analysis of different mutation operators, surrounded by a dilated discussion that justifying the relevance of genetic operators chosen to solving the TSP problem. Keywords: Genetic Algorithm, TSP, Mutation Operator, Probability of mutation. 1 INTRODUCTION Nature uses several mechanisms which have led to the emergence of new species and still better adapted to their environments. The laws which react to species evolution have been known by the research of Charles Darwin in the last century[1]. We know that Darwin was the founder of the theory of evolution however John Henry Holland team's had the initiative in developing the canonical genetic algorithm, (CGA) to solve an optimization problem. Thereafter, the Goldberg work [2] is more used in a lot of applications domain.
    [Show full text]
  • Genetic Programming –
    Genetic Programming { Computers using \Natural Selection" to generate programs William B. Langdon, Adil Qureshi Dept of Computer Science, University College London. ABSTRACT Computers that \program themselves"; science fact or fiction? Genetic Programming uses novel optimisation techniques to \evolve" simple programs; mimicking the way humans construct programs by progressively re-writing them. Trial programs are repeatedly modified in the search for \better/fitter” solutions. The underlying basis is Genetic Algorithms (GAs). Genetic Algorithms, pioneered by Holland [Hol92], Goldberg [Gol89] and others, are evolu- tionary search techniques inspired by natural selection (i.e survival of the fittest). GAs work with a \population" of trial solutions to a problem, frequently encoded as strings, and repeat- edly select the “fitter” solutions, attempting to evolve better ones. The power of GAs is being demonstrated for an increasing range of applications; financial, imaging, VLSI circuit layout, gas pipeline control and production scheduling [Dav91]. But one of the most intriguing uses of GAs - driven by Koza [Koz92] - is automatic program generation. Genetic Programming applies GAs to a \population" of programs - typically encoded as tree-structures. Trial programs are evaluated against a “fitness function" and the best solu- tions selected for modification and re-evaluation. This modification-evaluation cycle is repeated until a \correct" program is produced. GP has demonstrated its potential by evolving simple programs for medical signal filters, classifying news stories, performing optical character recog- nition, and for target identification. This paper surveys the exciting field of Genetic Programming. As a basis it reviews Ge- netic Algorithms and automatic program generation. Next it introduces Genetic Programming, describing its history and describing the technique via a worked example in C.
    [Show full text]
  • Module VI Introduction to Genetic Algorithm, Operators in Genetic
    Module VI Introduction to genetic algorithm, operators in genetic algorithm - coding - selection - cross over – mutation, Stopping condition for genetic algorithm flow,Genetic neuro hybrid systems, Genetic-Fuzzy rule based system. 1 Genetic Algorithmsare adaptive heuristic search algorithms based on the evolutionary ideas of natural selection and generics. As such they represent an intelligent exploitation of a random search used to solve Ahhough randomized, GAs are by no means random; instead iliey exploit historical information to direct the search imo the region of better performance within the search space. The basic techniques of the GAs are designed to simulate processes in natural systems necessary for evolution, especially those that follow the principles first laid down by Charles Darwin, "survival of the fittest," because in narure, competition among individuals for seamy resources results in the fittest individuals dominating over the weaker ones. OPERATORS IN GENETIC ALGORITHM 1) Encoding Encoding is a process of representing individual genes. The process can be performed using bits, numbers,trees, arrays, lists or any other objects. The encoding depends mainly on solving the problem. For example, one can encode directly real or integer numbers. Binary Encoding The most common way of encoding is a binary string, which would be represented as in Figure below. Each chromosome encodes a binary (bit) string. Each bit in the string can represent some characteristics ofthe solution. Every bit string therefore is a solution but not necessarily the best solution. Another possibility isthat the whole string can represent a number. The way bit strings can code differs from problem to problem. 2 Binary encoding gives many possible chromosomes with a smaller number of alleles.
    [Show full text]
  • Optimizing Bioengineered Vascular Systems: a Genetic Algorithm Approach
    Utah State University DigitalCommons@USU All Graduate Theses and Dissertations Graduate Studies 12-2017 Optimizing Bioengineered Vascular Systems: A Genetic Algorithm Approach Sima Mehri Kochaki Utah State University Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd Part of the Computer Sciences Commons Recommended Citation Kochaki, Sima Mehri, "Optimizing Bioengineered Vascular Systems: A Genetic Algorithm Approach" (2017). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 6693. https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/6693 This Thesis is brought to you for free and open access by the Graduate Studies at DigitalCommons@USU. It has been accepted for inclusion in All Graduate Theses and Dissertations by an authorized administrator of DigitalCommons@USU. For more information, please contact [email protected]. OPTIMIZING BIOENGINEERED VASCULAR SYSTEMS: A GENETIC ALGORITHM APPROACH by Sima Mehri Kolchaki A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE in Computer Science Approved: Nicholas S. Flann, Ph.D. Vicki Allan, Ph.D. Major Professor Committee Member Vladimir Kulyukin, Ph.D. Mark R. McLellan, Ph.D. Committee Member Vice President for Research and Dean of the School of Graduate Studies UTAH STATE UNIVERSITY Logan, Utah 2017 ii Copyright c Sima Mehri Kolchaki 2017 All Rights Reserved iii ABSTRACT Optimizing Bioengineered Vascular Systems: A Genetic Algorithm Approach by Sima Mehri Kolchaki, Master of Science Utah State University, 2017 Major Professor: Nicholas S. Flann, Ph.D. Department: Computer Science Efficient metabolism in bioengineered tissues requires a robust vascular system to pro- vide healthy microenvironments to the cells and stroma. Such networks form spontaneously during embryogenesis from randomly distributed endothelial cells.
    [Show full text]
  • Solving the MDBCS Problem Using the Metaheuric–Genetic Algorithm
    (IJACSA) International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications, Vol. 2, No. 12, 2011 Solving the MDBCS Problem Using the Metaheuric– Genetic Algorithm Genetic algorithm for the MDBCS problem Milena Bogdanović University of Niš Teacher Training Faculty Partizanska 14, Vranje, Serbia Abstract— The problems degree-limited graph of nodes solved by nondeterministic Turing machine. The importance of considering the weight of the vertex or weight of the edges, with this class of decision problems is that it contains many the aim to find the optimal weighted graph in terms of certain interesting problems of search and optimization, where we restrictions on the degree of the vertices in the subgraph. This want to determine whether there is some solution to the class of combinatorial problems was extensively studied because problem, but whether this is the optimal solution. Therefore, of the implementation and application in network design, the challenge with NP problem is to find the answer in an connection of networks and routing algorithms. It is likely that efficient manner, as an effective way to verify the response, ie. solution of MDBCS problem will find its place and application in solution already exists. Since many important problems in this these areas. The paper is given an ILP model to solve the class, intensive efforts were invested to find in polynomial time problem MDBCS, as well as the genetic algorithm, which algorithms for solving problems in class NP. However, a large calculates a good enough solution for the input graph with a number of NP problems has resisted these efforts, and greater number of nodes.
    [Show full text]
  • A Genetic Algorithm Approach to Measurement Prescription in Fault Diagnosis Q
    Information Sciences 120 (1999) 223±237 www.elsevier.com/locate/ins A genetic algorithm approach to measurement prescription in fault diagnosis q Benjamin Han, Shie-Jue Lee * Department of Electrical Engineering, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan, ROC Received 3 April 1998; received in revised form 11 June 1999; accepted 11 September 1999 Abstract To fully discriminate among all possible diagnoses in a fault diagnosis task, one needs to take measurements from the system being diagnosed. The primary eects of taking one measurement in diagnosis based on ®rst principles were presented in A. Reiter [Arti®cial Intelligence (32) (1987) 57±95] and a more detailed, formal account was given in A. Hou [Arti®cial Intelligence (65) (1994) 281±328]. However, the order in which measurements are to be taken is an issue. We propose a genetic algorithm to determine a good measurement order for a diagnosis task. The method applies operators such as selection, crossover, and mutation to evolve an initial population of measurement se- quences. The quality of a measurement sequence is evaluated based on the cost taken for the measurement sequence to ®nd the ®nal diagnosis. Experiments on testing circuits have shown that the quality of measurement sequences is greatly improved after evo- lution. Ó 1999 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved. Keywords: Model-based diagnosis; First principles; Measurements; Measurement ordering; Genetic operators 1. Introduction In a nontrivial fault diagnosis task using model-based approaches, such as Reiter's theory of diagnosis from ®rst principles [12,16], one is always q Partially supported by National Science Council under grant NSC-83-0408-E-110-004.
    [Show full text]
  • A New Strategy for Adapting the Mutation Probability in Genetic Algorithms
    CORE Metadata, citation and similar papers at core.ac.uk Provided by SEDICI - Repositorio de la UNLP A New Strategy for Adapting the Mutation Probability in Genetic Algorithms Natalia Stark, Gabriela Minetti, Carolina Salto Laboratorio de Investigación en Sistemas Inteligentes Facultad de Ingeniería – UNLPam Calle 110 N°390 – General Pico – La Pampa Email: {nstark,minettig,saltoc}@ing.unlpam.edu.ar Abstract. Traditionally in Genetic Algorithms, the mutation probability parameter maintains a constant value during the search. However, an important difficulty is to determine a priori which probability value is the best suited for a given problem. Besides, there is a growing demand for up-to-date optimization software, applicable by a non-specialist within an industrial development environment. These issues encourage us to propose an adaptive evolutionary algorithm that includes a mechanism to modify the mutation probability without external control. This process of dynamic adaptation happens while the algorithm is searching for the problem solution. This eliminates a very expensive computational phase related to the pre-tuning of the algorithmic parameters. We compare the performance of our adaptive proposal against traditional genetic algorithms with fixed parameter values in a numerical way. The empirical comparisons, over a range of NK-Landscapes instances, show that a genetic algorithm incorporating a strategy for adapting the mutation probability outperforms the same algorithm using fixed mutation rates. 1. Introduction During the design process of a Genetic Algorithm (GA), we need to instantiate several parameters to specific values before the run of the algorithm, in order to obtain a robust search technique. This task is also known as pre-tuning of algorithmic parameters.
    [Show full text]