Alex's Notes

cm3020 Topic 01: Genetic Algorithms

Main Info

Description

An introduction to Genetic Algorithms, taught through an implementation of Karl Sims’ work on evolving creatures. Broken into five weeks:

  • Week One: Intro to bio-inspired computing; intro to evolutionary theory; intro to the evolving creatures work.

  • Week Two: Start the implementation; URDF file format; joints, links, and motors.

  • Week Three: Genetic encoding; converting random numbers into recursive; moveable creatures.

  • Week Four: Fitness functions and population models, complete genetic algorithm that can evolve creatures.

  • Week Five: State of the art; developments in the field after Sims.

Assigned or Discussed Reading

Week One Introductory Reading

Week Five: State of the Art

Supplemetary Reading (not assigned)

External Resources

Lecture Summaries

Lecture summaries can be found in cm3020 Lecture Summaries: Topic 01