Deep reinforcement learning-guided coevolutionary algorithm for constrained multiobjective optimization

Effectively managing convergence, diversity, and feasibility constitutes a fundamental trinity of tasks in optimizing constrained multiobjective optimization problems (CMOPs). Nevertheless, contemporary constrained multiobjective evolutionary algorithms (CMOEAs) frequently encounter challenges in reconciling these imperatives simultaneously. Drawing inspiration from overwhelming success in artificial intelligence, we propose a deep reinforcement learning-guided coevolutionary algorithm (DRLCEA) to tackle this predicament. DRLCEA employs two populations to optimize the original and unconstrained versions of the CMOP, respectively and then fosters cooperation between them according to the guidance of DRL. The established DRL employs two evaluation metrics to appraise population convergence, diversity, and feasibility, thus remarkably proficient in reflecting and steering the coevolution. Therefore, the proposed DRLCEA could effectively locate the feasible regions and approximate the constrained Pareto front. We assess the proposed algorithm on 32 benchmark CMOPs and one real-world UAV emergency track planning (UETP) application. Experimental results undoubtedly demonstrate the superiority and robustness of the proposed DRLCEA.