Three-Step Parameters Tuning Model for Time-Constrained Genetic Algorithms

In this paper a three-step parameters tuning model for time-constrained Genetic Algorithms (GAs) was presented. The first step involved modeling the objective function using multiple regression model where the fitness value was the response variable and the GA parameters were the regressors. The second step involved constraint modeling using the objective function found in the first step and using the upper and lower limits of the GA parameters along with an upper limit on the execution time as constraints. The third step involved optimizing the constraint model found in the second step using a suitable deterministic optimization method to determine the optimal GA parameters taking into consideration four aspects that affect the GA performance. These aspects were- the problem under consideration, the GA parameters used, the execution time, and the power of the computer used.The validation of this model was demonstrated using two capacitated lot sizing problems. The model was able to predict the fitness values and the optimal parameters of the GA for these problems to a high degree of precision. Moreover, the results showed that tuning the GA parameters using multiple regression along with a suitable deterministic optimization method was an effective and robust method that enhanced the performance of the GA. The statistical analysis showed that in order to do a proper tuning for a certain GA, the designer of the GA must take into consideration not only the type of problem but also the size of the problem, the allowable execution time, and the hardware used in executing the GA. Furthermore, the results agreed with the "No Free Lunch" theorem.