A variant of the Genetic Algorithm is used to place sensors optimally on a Large Space Structure for the purpose of modal identification. The selection and reproduction schemes of the Genetic Algorithm are modified and a new operator called forced mutation is introduced. These changes are shown to improve the convergence of the algorithm and to lead to near optimal sensor locations. Two practical examples are investigated; sensor placement for an early version of the Space Station and an individual Space Station photovoltaic array. Simulated results are also compared with previous results obtained by the Effective Independence method. The Genetic Algorithm based sensor configuration estimates the target mode response more accurately.

This method of sensor placement first appeared in the Journal of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, in October 1993.

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