Efficient knowledge model for whale optimization algorithm to solve large-scale problems

In the process of digital transformation and development in various industries, there are more and more large-scale optimization problems. Currently, swarm intelligence optimization algorithms are the best method to solve such problems. However, previous experimental research has found that there is still room for improvement in the performance of using existing swarm intelligence optimization algorithms to solve such problems. To obtain the high-precision optimal value of whale optimization algorithm (WOA) for solving large-scale optimization problems, the optimization problem knowledge model is studied to guide the iterative process of WOA algorithm, and a novel whale optimization algorithm based on knowledge model guidance (KMGWOA) is proposed. First, a population update strategy based on multiple elite individuals is proposed to reduce the impact of the local optimal values, and the knowledge model to guide population update is constructed by combining the proposed population update strategy with the population update strategy based on global optimal individual. Second, a collaborative reverse learning knowledge model with multiple elite and poor individuals in the solution space is proposed to prevent long-term non-ideal region search. The above two knowledge models guide the iterative process of WOA algorithm in solving large-scale optimization problems. The performance of the KMGWOA algorithm guided by the proposed knowledge models is tested through the well-known classical test functions. The results demonstrate that the proposed KMGWOA algorithm not only has good search ability for the theoretical optimal value, but also achieves higher accuracy in obtaining the optimal value when it is difficult to obtain the theoretical optimal value. Moreover, KMGWOA algorithm has fast convergence speed and high effective iteration percentage. © 2024 IOS Press BV. All rights reserved.