Evolutionary intelligence (EI): AI solutions for geotechnical and mechanical engineering

Prof Amir Gandomi

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly advanced over the last two decades, emerging as a key solution for addressing complex real-world challenges. This presentation explores the transformative role of AI in advancing geotechnical and mechanical engineering, with a specific focus on Evolutionary Intelligence (EI). The session begins by examining genetic programming, an automated learning technique, and its applications in solving complex geomechanical problems. Recent advancements in applied evolutionary learning and their integration with big data analytics and modelling are highlighted, including insights from the presenter’s research. Key applications of EI in optimising complex and nonlinear systems will be explored, demonstrating how these algorithms outperform traditional geotechnical and mechanical engineering methods. Case studies of large-scale, multi-objective problems will illustrate the real-world impact of EI techniques. 

The presentation will also discuss how adaptable heuristics within EI can significantly improve optimisation outcomes, showcasing their potential to meet the intricate demands of modern engineering challenges. The session concludes by addressing the broader impacts of AI on engineering and its transformative potential in everyday problem-solving within the geotechnical and mechanical fields.

Prof Amir Gandomi Professor, University of Technology Sydney

Prof Gandomi received his PhD in civil engineering and is currently a data science professor at the Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney. Prior to joining UTS, Prof Gandomi was an Assistant Professor at the Stevens Institute of Technology and a distinguished research fellow at Michigan State University. 

Prof Gandomi has published 400-plus journal papers and 14 books, which have collectively been cited more than 57,000 times (H-index = 100+) and recognised by the Highly Cited Researcher awards 6 times. 

Prof Gandomi was ranked as the 24th most impactful researcher in AI and Image Processing in 2023 by a study at Stanford University. He has received multiple prestigious awards for his research excellence and impact, incliuding the 2023 Achenbach Medal and the 2022 Walter L. Huber Prize, the highest-level mid-career research award in all areas of civil engineering. 

He has served as associate editor, editor and guest editor in several prestigious journals. Prof Gandomi is active in delivering keynotes and invited talks. His research interests are applied AI.

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