Use of Genetic Algorithm to Determine Lightning Channel-Base Current-Function Parameters

A genetic algorithm (GA) is applied to calculate the lightning current parameters of the channel-base current function. Heidler's function parameters for subsequent return stroke are tuned for a typical value of Im (≈ 12 kA) for different (di/dt)max and also for a typical value of (di/dt)max (≈ 40 kA/ μs) for different values of Im, using a GA as the tool. This is a first of its kind attempt to show that a GA can be used for identifying Heidler's function parameters (as adopted by IEC Standard 62305-1, 2006) to easily obtain the required lightning current wave shape. The data are thus generated and reported (including the extreme cases) in this paper that are thought to be useful in modeling lightning channel-base currents. Further, this approach will be useful in research related to the radiated lightning electromagnetic pulse and its coupling with nearby objects.