A Study of the University Course Timetabling Problem by Using a Hybrid of Improved Memetic and Simulated Annealing Algorithms
Subject Areas : electrical and computer engineeringM. Joudaki 1 , M. A. Montazeri 2 * , S. R. Mousavi 3
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Keywords: Simulated annealing algorithm memetic algorithm local search university course timetabling problem,
Abstract :
Course timetabling is a complex problem, happening at the beginning of every semester at universities. One of the most important problems related to this issue is various constraints. As a result of this, timetabling is performed in various methods at different departments. Many works have been performed to solve this problem which majority of them have used metaheuristic based techniques. In this paper, an algorithm is based on hybridization of improved memetic algorithm and simulated annealing algorithm is proposed. Improvement in memetic algorithm means heuristic initializes population and modification in crossover operator. Also, an operator which is called improvement is designed for improvement of created chromosomes and decrease of violation of constraints. In addition, utilization of simulated annealing will result to increase of the exploitive search ability of memetic algorithm. The experimental results which based on standard data indicate this method is more efficient in comparison with some other new methods.
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