Multi-objective optimization of high-speed milling with parallel genetic simulated annealing

Abstract

In this paper, the optimization of multi-pass milling has been investigated in terms of two objectives: machining time and production cost. An advanced search algorithm-parallel genetic simulated annealing (PGSA)-was used to obtain the optimal cutting parameters. In the implementation of PGSA, the fitness assignment is based on the concept of a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA). An application example is given using PGSA, which has been used to find the optimal solutions under four different axial depths of cut on a 37 SUN workstation network simultaneously. In a single run, PGSA can find a Pareto-optimal front which is composed of many Pareto-optimal solutions. A weighted average strategy is then used to find the optimal cutting parameters along the Pareto-optimal front. Finally, based on the concept of dynamic programming, the optimal cutting strategy has been obtained. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2006.