Parallel implementation of evolution strategy optimization algorithm on multicore processors

摘要

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to present a parallel implementation of an evolution strategy (ES) algorithm for optimization of electromagnetic devices. It is intended for multi-core processors and for optimization problems that have objective function representing a numerical simulation of electromagnetic devices. The speed-up of the optimization is evaluated as a function of the number of processor cores used.rnDesign/methodology/approach - Two parallelization approaches are implemented in the program developed - using multithreaded programming and using OpenMP. Their advantages and drawbacks are discussed. The program is tested on two examples for optimization of electromagnetic devices. Findings - Using the developed parallel ES algorithm on a quad-core processor, the optimization time can be reduced 2.4-3 times, instead of the expected four times. This is due to a number of system processes and programs that run on part of the cores.rnOriginality/value - A new parallel ES optimization algorithm has been developed and investigated. The paper could be useful for researchers aiming to diminish the optimization time by using parallel evolution optimization on multi-core processors.