Handling integrated quantitative and qualitative search space in a real world optimisation problem

Since information in engineering design problems can be both quantitative (Q/sup T/) and qualitative (Q/sup L/) in nature, combining both types of information can result in more realistic solution for real world optimisation problems. However, most of the approaches reported in literature are incapable of conducting optimisation search in such mixed environment. Therefore we propose a mathematically proven methodology for handling integrated Q/sup T/ and Q/sup L/ search space in real world optimisation problems. We begin by presenting the definition of these optimisation problems an analysis of the challenges that they pose for existing optimisation strategies and related research. We then present the proposed solution strategy and the mathematical proof. Furthermore, a case study on rod rolling problem is presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed metholodology. We conclude with a brief outline of limitations and future research activities.