Towards Interactive Evolution: A Distributed Optimiser for Multi-Objective Water Distribution Network Design

It is well known that water distribution networks can be optimised by evolutionary algorithms. However, while such optimisation can result in mathematically optimal solutions, the ability of the algorithm to generate novelty can often lead to solutions that are not practical for implementation. This work describes a distributed optimisation platform that will enable the inclusion of a human decision maker in the optimisation process. The architecture of the platform is described, and examples of its execution on benchmark problems is described, using an automated client that interacts with the platform in lieu of a human decision maker.