INSTRUCTIONS

This Java-applet visualizes the probabilistic search process of a Genetic Algorithm (GA). The task of the GA is to maximize a 2-dimensional Shekel-function. The coloured square at the top shows a density plot of this function being the playing ground for the GA. Underneath some informations about the actual state of the optimization process are presented. The four buttons at the bottom allow

to start the animation

The GA search can be started by either pressing the "Start All" or the "Step by Step" button. The "Start All" button causes a complete animation run which is stopped not before the specified number of generations is reached. After each computed generation the actual distribution of its individuals is plotted upon the density plot. A few seconds later the animation automatically proceeds to the next generation. The "Step by Step" button allows to manually perform the animation stepwise. This enables the user to comprehensively analyze each animation step for an arbitrary amount of time.

to set the control parameters of the GA

The "Change Parameter" button gives the user the opportunity to manipulate the GA control parameters.

to get a 3D-representation of the optimized goal function

The pressing of the "Show Function 3D" button activates a window with a graphical 3D-representation of the optimized goal function (here the Shekel-function).