PoS - Proceedings of Science
Volume 301 - 35th International Cosmic Ray Conference (ICRC2017) - Session Gamma-Ray Astronomy. GA-extra-galactic
Multi-Objective Genetic Algorithm Optimisation for an Array of Cherenkov Telescopes
B. Fontes Souto, U. Barres de Almeida* and U. Giaccari
Full text: pdf
Pre-published on: August 16, 2017
Published on: August 03, 2018
Abstract
In the context of the development of the Cherenkov Telescope Array, we have conceived and implemented a multi-objective genetic algorithm (GA) code for the optimisation of an array of Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescopes (IACTs). The algorithm takes as input a series of cost functions (metrics) each describing a different objetive of the optimisation (such as effective area, angular resolution, etc.), all of which are expressed in terms of the relative position of the telescopes in the plane. The output of the algorithm is a family of geometrical arrangements which correspond to the complete set of solutions to the array optimisation problem, and differ from each other according to the relative weight given to each of the (maybe conflicting) objetives of the optimisation. Since the algorithm works with parallel optimisation it admits as many cost functions as desired, and can incorporate constraints such as budget (cost cap) for the array and topological limitations of the terrain, like geographical accidents where telescopes cannot be installed. It also admits different types of telescopes (hybrid arrays) and the number of telescopes of each type can be treated as a parameter to be optimised - constrained, for example, by the cost of each type or the energy range of interest. The purpose of the algorithm, which converges fast to optimised solutions (if compared to the time for a complete Monte Carlo Simulation of a single configuration), is to provide a tool to investigate the full parameter space of possible geometries, and help in designing complex arrays. It does not substitute a detailed Monte Carlo study, but aims to guide it. In the examples of arrays shown here we have used as metrics simple heuristic expressions describing the fundamentals of the IAC technique, but these input functions can be made as detailed or complex as desired for a given experiment. It is important to stress that the individual characteristics of each telescope are taken as fixed, and only the telescope arrangement is being optimised. Preliminary results will be presented in this contribution for the first time.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.22323/1.301.0670
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