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The optimization of many engineering systems is challenged by the solution over-fit to the data set used to evaluate potential solutions during the evolutionary process. The solution over-fit phenomenon is hard to detect and is especially prevalent in problems involving example-based training, such as pattern feature selection and pattern classifier design. For these applications, uncontrolled over-fit can lead to biased features being extracted and degraded classifier generalization abilities. This paper details the performance of a solution over-fit control strategy used in the multiobjective evolutionary optimization of a multileveled classification system. This control, embedded within a solution validation procedure, minimizes the over-fit effects without modifying the dominance relation used in the processing of candidate solutions. Extensive experimental analysis using multiobjective genetic and memetic algorithms demonstrates both the need and the efficiency of the proposed over-fit control for pattern classification systems optimization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For constrained optimization problems, evolutionary algorithms often utilize a penalty function to deal with constraints, even if it is difficult to control the penalty parameters. To overcome this shortcoming, this paper presents a new penalty function which has no parameter and can effectively handle constraint first, after which a hybrid-fitness function integrating this penalty function into the objective function is designed. The new fitness function can properly evaluate not only feasible solution, but also infeasible one, and distinguish any feasible one from an infeasible one. Meanwhile, a new crossover operator based on simplex crossover operator and a new PSO mutation operator are also proposed, which can produce high quality offspring. Based on these, a new evolutionary algorithm for constrained optimization problems is proposed. The simulations are made on ten widely used benchmark problems, and the results indicate the proposed algorithm is effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]