From: "Frank Q" 
To: 
Reply-To: "Frank Q" 


Hi All

A well known algorithm going by the name "Genetic Algorithm"
(which has been posted on this list in the past) is probably what they're
referring to. It is an optimiser which can optimise analytic functions as
well as non-analytic functions. It is my first choice because I usually
don't have to time to look for an analytic or "mathematical"
solutions.

Cheers
Frank Q

----- Original Message -----
From: "clement.focuser" 
To: 
Sent: Wednesday, June 04, 2003 4:18 PM Subject: ATM Darwin Optical Design


>
> In the Feb 2003 issue of Scientific American  the article of Evolving
> Inventions
> By John R. Koza, Martin A. Keane and Matthew J. Streeter presents an
> interesting concept of design by computer. Optimization programs found in
> some ray tracing software and electrical simulation (spice) work only on a
> range of values of a predefined optical or electrical design. The new type
> of software presented in this article actual mimics the process of
> evolution. The design itself, components type, component placement and
range
> of values, are allowed to change and “evolve” and produce new combinations
> in the design. Some of the examples in the article are of analog filter
> circuits that were not only optimized, but, new and better circuit
> topologies emerged. The same could be applied to optical design…perhaps an
> all- spherical large easily built scope design might be realized.
>
>
>
> Don Clement
>
> Running Springs, California
>
> http://www.clementfocuser.com
>

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