ABACO · Analyzing the behaviour of ant colony optimization algorithms

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Project objective

Research on a new technique for optimization is initially focused on proof-of-concept applications. It is only after experimental work has shown the practical interest of the method that researchers try to deepen their understanding of the method's functio ning not only through more and more sophisticated experiments but also by means of an effort to build a theory. Tackling questions such as ``how and why the method works'' is important, because finding an answer may help in improving its applicability. Ant colony optimization, which was invented in the early 90s as a novel metaheuristic for solving hard combinatorial optimization problems, finds itself currently at this point of an algorithm life cycle. In this project we propose to theoretically study the behaviour of ant colony optimization algorithms in order to improve our understanding of the methods working. Important is hereby the study and the understanding of the relation between different types of search bias. We intent to transfer the gained knowl edge on ant colony optimization algorithms into guidelines for the development of new algorithmic components. By this we aim at improving the applicability of ant colony optimization algorithms in practise. The outcomes of this project can be important in all areas in which efficient techniques for optimization are needed. Examples are bioinformatics or tlecommunications.

Original text from CORDIS.

Participants

• UNIVERSITAT POLITèCNICA DE CATALUNYACoordinatorCity levelSpain

Links

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