Engineering Optimization Using Modified Binary Differential Evolution Algorithm

Differential evolution (DE) is a heuristic optimization method used to solve many optimization problems in real-valued search space. It has the advantage of incorporating a relatively simple and efficient form of mutation and crossover. However, the operator of DE is primarily based on floating-point representation only and is difficult to apply to binary-based optimization problems. In this paper, a modified binary differential evolution with a simple and new binary mutation mechanism based on a logical operation is proposed. The developed binary mutation strategy is suitable for dealing with discrete and parametric engineering optimization problems. Two different types of engineering problems consisting of optimal shape design of heat bonder and topology optimization of structure are used to illustrate the high viability of the proposed algorithm in engineering optimization.