Optimal Search Mechanism Analysis of Light Ray Optimization Algorithm

Abstract:

      Based on Fermat's principle and the automatic optimization mechanism in the propagation process of light, an optimal searching algorithm named light ray optimization is presented, where the laws of refraction and reflection of light rays are integrated into searching process of optimization. In this algorithm, coordinate space is assumed to be the space that is full of media with different refractivities, then the space is divided by grids, and finally the searching path is assumed to be the propagation path of light rays. With the law of refraction, the search direction is deflected to the direction that makes the value of objective function decrease. With the law of reflection, the search direction is changed, which makes the search continue when it cannot keep going with refraction. Only the function values of objective problems are used and there is no artificial rule in light ray optimization, so it is simple and easy to realize. Theoretical analysis and the results of numerical experiments show that the algorithm is feasible and effective.