A combined genetic algorithms-shooting method approach to solving optimal control problems

In this paper, an alternative method for solving optimal control problems i s presented. By applying calculus of variations, the optimal control proble m can be reduced to solving a two-point boundary value problem. Here, the s olution is generated with a combination of two methods-genetic algorithms ( GA) and the shooting method. An estimate of the optimal solution is first o btained using GA. This solution is in turn used as the initial guess for th e shooting method. This combined method is applied to an optimal missile guidance problem. The performances of the combined method and GA are evaluated by simulation and compared. The results clear ly show that the proposed combined method is a ble to locate the optimal solution move efficiently than GA. The results al so show that the combined method never fails to correctly determine the opt imal solution. Therefore, it proves to be more robust than the shooting met hod whose convergence is not always guaranteed.