evolib 0.1.0.dev21

A modular framework for evolutionary strategies and neuroevolution.

EvoLib – A Modular Framework for Evolutionary Computation

EvoLib is a modular and extensible Python framework for designing, analyzing, and teaching evolutionary algorithms. It supports classical strategies such as (μ, λ) and (μ + λ), with configurable mutation, selection, and crossover operators, as well as neuroevolution.

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Key Features

• Configurable Evolution: Define evolutionary strategies via simple YAML files.
• Modular Design: Easily swap mutation, selection, and crossover strategies.
• Built-in Logging: Fitness tracking and history recording out-of-the-box.
• Educational Focus: Includes didactic examples and an extensible code structure.
• Neuroevolution: Structured neural networks (EvoNet) and evolvable parameter vectors supported.
• Type-Checked: With mypy and PEP8 compliance.

⚠️ This project is in alpha stage. APIs and configuration structure may change.

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Directory Structure

evolib/
├── core/           # Individual, Population
├── config/         # Typed component configuration (Vector, EvoNet, etc.)
├── interfaces/     # Enums, types, helper protocols
├── initializers/   # Initializer registry and implementations
├── operators/      # Mutation, crossover, selection, etc.
├── registry/       # Strategy and operator registries
├── representation/ # ParaBase + Vector, EvoNet, Composite etc.
├── utils/          # Logging, plotting, math, config loader
└── examples/       # Educational examples and test runs

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Installation

pip install evolib

Requirements: Python 3.9+ and packages in requirements.txt.

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Example Usage

from evolib import Pop
from my_fitness import fitness_function

pop = Pop(config_path="config/my_experiment.yaml")
pop.set_functions(fitness_function=fitness_function)

for _ in range(pop.max_generations):
    pop.run_one_generation()

For full examples, see 📁examples/ – including adaptive mutation, controller evolution, and network approximation.

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Configuration Example (YAML)

parent_pool_size: 20
offspring_pool_size: 60
max_generations: 100
max_indiv_age: 0
num_elites: 2

evolution:
  strategy: "mu_plus_lambda"

modules:
  main:
    type: vector
    dim: 16
    initializer: random_vector
    bounds: [-2.0, 2.0]
    init_bounds: [-1.0, 1.0]

    mutation:
      strategy: constant
      probability: 1.0
      strength: 0.05


# Example: Multiple Modules
# modules:
#   controller:
#     type: vector
#     dim: 8
#     initializer: normal_vector
#     mutation:
#       strategy: constant
#       strength: 0.1
#
#   brain:
#     type: evonet
#     dim: [4, 8, 2]
#     initializer: normal_evonet
#     mutation:
#       strategy: constant
#       strength: 0.05

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Supported Parameter Representations

Type	Structure	Description
vector	flat, net, tensor, blocks	Evolvable vectors or neural network encodings
evonet	—	Neural networks via EvoNet

ℹ️ Multiple parameter types (e.g. vector + evonet) can be combined in a single individual. Each component evolves independently, using its own configuration.

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Use Cases

EvoLib is designed for both research and education in evolutionary computation. It supports a wide range of applications, including:

• Function optimization: Test and visualize search behavior on standard functions (e.g., Sphere, Ackley)
• Hyperparameter tuning: Use evolutionary strategies to optimize black-box functions.
• Strategy comparison: Test and evaluate different mutation, selection, and crossover methods.
• Educational use: Clear API and examples for teaching evolutionary computation concepts.
• Neuroevolution: Evolve neural networks with weights and structure.

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Roadmap

• Adaptive Mutation (global, individual, per-parameter)
• Flexible Crossover Strategies (BLX, intermediate, none)
• Strategy Comparisons via Examples
• Structured Neural Representations (EvoNet)
• Composite Parameters (multi-module individuals)
• Neuroevolution
• Topological Evolution (add/remove neurons, edges)
• Co-Evolution & Speciation Support
• Advanced Visualization Tools

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Documentation

Documentation for EvoLib is available at: 👉 https://evolib.readthedocs.io/en/latest/

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License

MIT License – see MIT License.