A Review of Optimization Techniques - Applications and Comparative
A Review of Optimization Techniques - Applications and Comparative
2024
Zahir Al-Khafaji
Recommended Citation
Alridha, Ahmed Hasan; Abd Alsharify, Fouad H.; and Al-Khafaji, Zahir (2024) "A Review of Optimization
Techniques: Applications and Comparative Analysis," Iraqi Journal for Computer Science and
Mathematics: Vol. 5: Iss. 2, Article 5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52866/ijcsm.2024.05.02.011
Available at: https://ijcsm.researchcommons.org/ijcsm/vol5/iss2/5
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e-ISSN: 2788-7421 p-ISSN: 2958-0544
1
Department of Mathematics, General Directorate of Education, Ministry of Education, Babylon, IRAQ
2
Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRAQ
3
Department of Mathematics, College of Education, University of Babylon, Babylon, IRAQ
ABSTRACT: Optimization algorithms exist to find solutions to various problems and then find out the optimal
solutions. These algorithms are designed to reach desired goals with high accuracy and low error, as well as
improve performance in various fields, including machine learning, operations research, physics, chemistry, and
engineering. As technology continues to advance, optimization algorithms are increasingly needed to address
complex real-world challenges and drive innovation across all disciplines. Quantitative leaps have been achieved in
improving the efficiency of optimization algorithms through the diversity of sources of information feeding these
algorithms according to the type of optimization problem, based on scientific and organized foundations. The
objectives of this paper are to discuss the most important optimization algorithms, classify the scientific fields
involved in their application, and optimize problems involved in this regard, in addition to providing a brief
overview for comparison among these algorithms.
Keywords: Optimization algorithms, applications field, comparison approach, algorithm classification.
1. INTRODUCTION
Optimization algorithms have been a suitable approach to solving the most difficult problems in various real-world
fields and systems, from engineering and economic sciences to health care. Nowadays, optimization algorithms have
become widespread thanks to technological development. To keep pace with development and modernity, there has
been an urgent need to develop and improve a wide range of optimization algorithms so that they are classified
according to their speed and strength to achieve the required optimization goals with high efficiency. These algorithms
have played a pioneering role in making constructive decisions to find optimal solutions to various problems. In this
paper, it will be an extensive journey through time to explore and review the wonderful evidence of the most important
optimization algorithms from the past to the present day. By delving deeper into the historical development patterns of
these algorithms, insight into their development methods, basic principles, and notable applications can be gained.
Among the highlights of our journey are early developments in the approach to optimization algorithms, for example,
the gradient descent approach, which laid the foundation for many optimization techniques in machine learning as well
as parameter optimization [1-3]. In addition, more research has delved into the origins of genetic algorithms, whose
influence was inspired by the foundations of natural evolution, where their distinct influence was effective on resource
allocation as well as engineering design problems [4-8]. Our journey also includes the detection of the emergence of
simulated annealing, which was originally inspired by the physical process of annealing, as well as revolutionary
harmonic optimization [9-15]. Particle swarm optimization (PSO) has joined the scope of flight, mimicking nature
through organisms in their behavior to address the challenges of control engineering and parameter optimization [16-
21], as well as the ant colony algorithm, inspired by the foraging behavior of ants, to solve routing and scheduling
problems [22-24]. A motive for progress in various fields [25-27]. In addition, exploring the world of constrained
programming, which is concerned with solving combinatorial problems with complex constraints, allows for effective
scheduling and resource allocation in various applications [28-29]. The emergence of inner point methods provides
efficiency and accuracy for linear and nonlinear programming problems, leading to great strides in optimization
techniques [30-31]. Moreover, the innovative approach of Tobu searches with non-convex objectives was discussed,
which, in its approach, uses memory-based strategies to navigate complex search spaces and excels in combinatorial
optimization problems [32], [33]. The reality of convex optimization is also revealed, the power of which highlights
applications in portfolio optimization, signal processing, and beyond [34-36]. By conducting this study and delving into
the historical development of optimization algorithms, the tracker can estimate the evolution and transformation of
optimization techniques over time. A map can be drawn showing each algorithm’s contribution to solving real-world
problems and shaping developments in various fields, and the recipient can appreciate the evolution and transformation
of optimization techniques over time. Our goal is also to provide a comprehensive perspective on the most important
optimization algorithms, their basic principles, and their impact on various fields. By understanding their strengths,
limitations, and historical context, the current state of optimization algorithms can be better estimated, and the
upcoming trends in this area of dynamic development can be predicted. As we embark on a journey into the world of
optimization algorithms and reveal their impact on problem-solving, a visual guide awaits us at the doorstep. The
following flowchart briefly captures the various types of optimization algorithms, serving as our navigation tool in
understanding their multifaceted applications (see Fig. 1).
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the assessment of feasible solutions, inclusive of genetic programming (GP) and evolutionary strategies (ES). The basis
process of those algorithms is to simulate organic evolution through the incorporation of factors of selection,
intersection, and mutation to push a collection of individuals toward optimal solutions. When it involves fixing
complicated and multidimensional optimization issues, EAs are very useful. Researchers John Holland, Ingo
Rechenberg, and Hans-Paul Schwefel did paintings within the area of EAs in the 1960s and 1970s [42]. EAs represent a
distinct family of algorithms made possible by means of their contributions to genetic algorithms, evolutionary
techniques, and evolutionary programming.
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Table 1. Optimization algorithms and their applications to corresponding optimization problems in the real
world.
Optimization Algorithm Optimization Problems
Fig. 2 shows a mutually beneficial relationship between problem landscapes and optimization strategies. As we
examine the specifics, each row reveals how well an algorithm handles a particular problem. The deliberate coupling of
algorithms and their domains is strikingly highlighted by this organized arrangement. Each submission demonstrates
the adaptability and creativity these algorithms bring to both practical and theoretical concerns.
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FIGURE 2. A comprehensive mapping for optimization algorithms and corresponding problem types.
Table 2 focuses on particular applications in several sciences, with a particular emphasis on the crucial roles that
optimization algorithms play in the fields of chemistry, physics, and engineering. Here, the main situations in which
these algorithms have a significant impact will be examined, highlighting their importance and contributions in these
dynamic areas.
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effective in
dynamic and
changing
environments.
Evolutionary Evolutionary, Combinatorial Large High Effective for
Algorithms population- complex
based optimization
problems with
multidimensional
search spaces.
Constraint Constraint- Combinatorial Large, discrete Low Suitable for
Programming based, intelligent problems with a
search set of constraints
that need to be
satisfied.
Interior Point Convex Linear, Large Low Efficient for
Methods optimization, nonlinear solving linear
interior traversal and nonlinear
programming
problems.
Tabu Search Metaheuristic, Combinatorial Large, discrete Moderate Escapes local
adaptive optima, explores
memory new regions in
the solution
space.
Convex Convex Convex Large Low Efficient for
Optimization function-based, solving
specific methods optimization
problems with
convex
objectives and
constraints.
Finally, Table 4 provides an effective comparison of the characteristics of optimization algorithms. The table
addresses key aspects, such as execution speed, computing cost, and compatibility with the real environment, in
addition to a comprehensive analysis that enables the user to understand the prominent differences between these
algorithms.
Table 4. Comprehensive comparative analysis of the performance and integration of optimization algorithms.
Algorithm Speed of Computing cost Compatibility Analysis
implementation with the real
environment
Genetic Variable Medium Strong Flexibility and
Algorithms strength in
solving complex
problems.
Simulated Medium to slow Low to medium Good Average
Annealing performance,
change
efficiency,
balance between
exploration and
exploitation.
Particle Swarm Medium to slow Low to medium Good Fast, versatile
Optimization adaptation, large-
scale problems.
Ant Colony Medium to slow Low to medium Good Excellent
Optimization guidance,
environmental
adaptation,
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effective in
improving
distribution.
Evolutionary variable Medium Strong Strength in
Algorithms optimization and
design, interest
in complexity.
Constraint variable Medium Good Excellence in
Programming problem-solving,
strength in
resource
planning, interest
in memory and
complexity.
Interior Point Fast to medium Low to medium Strong Fast, effective in
Methods solving specific
problems,
powerful in
software
improvement.
Tabu Search Medium to slow Low to medium Good Average results,
good in
optimization and
scheduling,
attention to
memory
Funding
None
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The authors would like to thank the reviewers and journal staff for their valuable efforts in publishing this paper.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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