The Genetic Algorithm and Local Optimizer Hybrid Approach for the AdvancedLayout Problem

Spatial layout problems aaect architects, physicists and many other professionals in their attempts to streamline factory designs, nd optimal molecular con-gurations or arrange components for micro-circuitry design. Although genetic algorithms have been used successfully in many of these areas, certain aspects of these problems still represent a major challenge for the GA community. This paper discusses the problems of adding heterogeneous objects, continuous placement and forbidden zones to the general layout problem. The factory oor layout problem is used as an example of the eeect and problems of dealing with these extensions. Results are achieved through the use of an iterative local optimizer and a genetic algorithm.