Abstract
The traditional optimization approaches suffer from certain problems like getting stuck in local optima, low speed, susceptibility to local optima, and searching unknown search spaces, thus requiring reliance on single-based solutions. Herein, an Improved Aquila Optimizer (IAO) is proposed, which is a unique meta-heuristic optimization method motivated by the hunting behavior of Aquila. An improved version of Aquila optimizer seeks to increase effectiveness and productivity. IAO emulates the hunting behaviors of Aquila, elucidating each step of the hunting process. The IAO algorithm contains innovative elements to boost its optimization capabilities. It combines a combination of low flight with a leisurely descent for exploitation, high-altitude vertical dives, contour flying with brief gliding attacks for exploration, and controlled swooping maneuvers for effective prey capture. To assess the effectiveness of IAO, Herein, numerous experiments were carried out. Firstly, IAO was compared using 23 classical optimization functions. The achieved results demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms various champion algorithms. Secondly, the proposed algorithm is applied to five real-world engineering problems. The achieved results prove effectiveness in diverse application domains. The key findings of the research work highlight IAO's resilience and adaptability in solving challenging optimization issues and its importance as a strong optimization tool for real-world engineering applications. Convergence curves compare the speed of proposed algorithms with selected algorithms for 1000 iterations. Time complexity analysis shows that the best time is 0.00015225 which is better as compared to other algorithms also Wilcoxon ranksum test is carried out to calculate the p-value is less than 0.05 rejecting the null hypothesis. The research emphasizes the potential of IAO as a tool for tackling real-world optimization challenges by explaining its efficacy and competitiveness compared to other optimization procedures via comprehensive testing and analysis.