Evolutionary optimization and free form deformation

Abstract

Techniques are provided for representation of designs using a basic design which is then modified by a transformation function. In free form deformation techniques the transformation function is defined by a spline function which transforms the space in which the design is defined into a second space where the new modified design is defined. During the design process the parameters of the spline function determine the parameters of the transformation function. While using Evolution Strategies, parameters of the spline function also determine the parameters the optimization algorithm works in. In order to adapt the transformation function optimally to the given problem and the necessary modification a mutation operator is proposed which allows introduction and deletion of control points. Instead of the standard mutation operator in evolution strategies this mutation operator works on the representation of the problem/design.

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