Hierarchical optimization using hierarchical multi-competitive genetic algorithm and its application to multiple Vehicle Routing Problem

In this paper a new optimization technique which is effective for hierarchical optimization problem is proposed. This technique is an extension of the multiple-competitive distributed genetic algorithm (mcDGA). This method consists of two levels upper and lower. The solution space to be searched is determined at the upper level, and the optimum solution in a given solution space is determined at the lower level. The migration of the individual and competition is performed at the lower layer thereby optimal solution can be found efficiently. We apply the proposed hierarchical mcDGA to the mVRP to confirm the effectiveness. Simulation result shows the effectiveness of the proposed method.