Modified harmony search optimization for constrained design problems

Constrained optimization is a major real-world problem. Constrained optimization problems consist of an objective function subjected to both linear and nonlinear constraints. Here a constraint handling procedure based on the fitness priority-based ranking method (FPBRM) is proposed. It is embedded into a harmony search (HS) algorithm that allows it to satisfy constraints. The HS algorithm is conceptualized using the musical process of searching for a perfect state of harmony. Here, the original heuristic HS was improved by combining both improved and global-best methods along with the FPBRM. The resulting modified harmony search (MHS) was then compared with the original HS technique and other optimization methods for several test problems.

► In this study, a constraint handling procedure based on the fitness priority-based ranking method (FPBRM) is proposed.
► Then, the proposed method is embedded into a harmony search algorithm that allows it to satisfy constraints.
► The proposed approach performed well against standard evolutionary and mathematical techniques in a variety of test problems.