Metaheuristic algorithms are stochastic-based search techniques widely used for solving different types of optimization problems. These methods mostly adjust their search behavior using pre-defined search pattern(s) regardless of the current problem specifications. Therefore, integrating them with logical auxiliary modules can significantly enhance their search efficiency by enabling them to dynamically adapt their search behavior. The present study introduces a novel decision-making approach that employs interval type-2 fuzzy logic to balance the search behavior during optimization process. The proposed approach, designed as a stand-alone module with the flexibility to be integrated into various algorithms, is incorporated into the Interactive Search Algorithm. The developed reinforced technique is named Type-2 Fuzzy Interactive Search Algorithm. Performance of the proposed method is tested on different unconstrained mathematical functions and constrained structural and mechanical optimization problems. The attained results are compared with standard ISA method and seven other metaheuristic techniques through a suite of numerical and statistical evaluations. Drawing from the obtained results, the integration of the type-2 fuzzy decision module significantly enhances the algorithm's search capability. This improvement is evident in terms of stability, accuracy, and computational cost. It is worth noting that the employed comparative performance index for the proposed method indicates improvements of 3.38, 13.09, 16.61, and 27.23 percent compared to the best solution found by the selected methods for engineering problems.
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