Optimization of Waypoints on the Great Circle Route Based on Genetic Algorithm and Fuzzy Logic

Abstract

Determining the appropriate number and position of waypoints on a great circle route (GCR) helps to shorten the sailing distance, reduce the number of course changes, and well-approximate the GCR through a small number of rhumb line (RL) legs. In this study, a genetic algorithm-based method (i.e., the GA method) is proposed to optimize the positions of waypoints on the GCR when the number of waypoints is given. Furthermore, a fuzzy logic-based evaluation method for the number of waypoints (i.e., the FL method) is proposed to judge whether to add a new waypoint or stop the process by using the non-fixed values while considering both the number of waypoints and the remaining benefit of the GCR. According to the example demonstration results, the two methods proposed in this study can well-determine the number and position of waypoints and provide effective support for ocean route planning.