Multi-Objective Vehicle Layout Optimization

In this paper, application of a multi-objective evolutionary algorithms is explored for solving multi-objective placement, packing, or layout problems. Placement problems are optimization problems concerned with finding an optimal arrangement of multiple items in a large containing region while satisfying prescribed requirements and constraints. This study is applied to the configuration design of U.S. Army FMTV (Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles). Three objective functions are considered: vehicle dynamic performance, survivability and maintainability. The methodology uses several analysis packages to evaluate the fitness of the evolving designs. To achieve better performance, the packing GA is introduced. A test case demonstrates that the developed algorithm is more efficient than the traditional GA in solving packing problems.