Automatic parameterization for expeditious modelling of virtual urban environments - a new hybrid metaheuristic

Abstract

Expeditious modelling of virtual urban environments consists of generating realistic 3d models from limited information. It has several practical applications but typically suffers from a lack of accuracy in the parameter values that feed the modeller. By gathering small amounts of information about certain key urban areas, it becomes possible to feed a system that automatically compares and adjusts the input parameter values to find optimal solutions of parameter combinations that resemble the real life model. These correctly parameterized rules can then be reapplied to generate virtual models of real areas with similar characteristics to the referenced area. Based on several nature inspired metaheuristic algorithms such as genetic algorithms, simulated annealing and harmony search, this paper presents a new hybrid metaheuristic algorithm capable of optimizing functions with both discrete and continuous parameters and offer competitive results in a highly neglected field of application.