Automated passive filter synthesis using a novel tree representation and genetic programming

This paper proposes a novel tree representation which is suitable for the analysis of RLC (i.e., resistor, inductor, and capacitor) circuits. Genetic programming (GP) based on the tree representation is applied to passive filter synthesis problems. The GP is optimized and then incorporated into an algorithm which can automatically find parsimonious solutions without predetermining the number of the required circuit components. The experimental results show the proposed method is efficient in three aspects. First, the GP-evolved circuits are more parsimonious than those resulting from traditional design methods in many cases. Second, the proposed method is faster than previous work and can effectively generate parsimonious filters of very high order where conventional methods fail. Third, when the component values are restricted to a set of preferred values, the GP method can generate compliant solutions by means of novel circuit topology.