Research of optimal design for gravity dam based on niche genetic algorithm

Abstract

Niche genetic algorithm (NGA) is recommended for optimal design of gravity dam section and to overcome the defects of constant crossover probability and mutation probability, appearing precocious phenomena in the optimizing process in simple genetic algorithm (SGA). Thanks to NGA, the calculations are rapid and easy, and the optimization results are more close to the global optimal solution. Thus, it has been successfully applied to the optimal design of gravity dam section. The optimal results indicate that NGA is available in optimal designs of gravity dam section, and the results are safe, economical and rather ideal. Thereby, the optimal results can directly apply to engineering designs, and can provide reference for optimal design of gravity dam. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.