Swarming genetic algorithm: A nested fully coupled hybrid of genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization.

Abstract

Particle swarm optimization and genetic algorithms are two classes of popular heuristic algorithms that are frequently used for solving complex multi-dimensional mathematical optimization problems, each one with its one advantages and shortcomings. Particle swarm optimization is known to favor exploitation over exploration, and as a result it often converges rapidly to local optima other than the global optimum. The genetic algorithm has the ability to overcome local extrema throughout the optimization process, but it often suffers from slow convergence rates. This paper proposes a new hybrid algorithm that nests particle swarm optimization operations in the genetic algorithm, providing the general population with the exploitation prowess of the genetic algorithm and a sub-population with the high exploitation capabilities of particle swarm optimization. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated through solutions of several continuous optimization problems, as well as discrete (traveling salesman) problems. It is found that the new hybrid algorithm provides a better balance between exploration and exploitation compared to both parent algorithms, as well as existing hybrid algorithms, achieving consistently accurate results with relatively small computational cost.