MTV-SCA: multi-trial vector-based sine cosine algorithm

The sine cosine algorithm (SCA) is a metaheuristic algorithm that employs the characteristics of sine and cosine trigonometric functions. SCA’s deficiencies include a tendency to get trapped in local optima, exploration–exploitation imbalance, and poor accuracy, which limit its effectiveness in solving complex optimization problems. To address these limitations, a multi-trial vector-based sine cosine algorithm (MTV-SCA) is proposed in this study. In MTV-SCA, a sufficient number of search strategies incorporating three control parameters are adapted through a multi-trial vector (MTV) approach to achieve specific objectives during the search process. The major contribution of this study is employing four distinct search strategies, each adapted to preserve the equilibrium between exploration and exploitation and avoid premature convergence during optimization. The strategies utilize different sinusoidal and cosinusoidal parameters to improve the algorithm’s performance. The effectiveness of MTV-SCA was evaluated using benchmark functions of CEC 2018 and compared to state-of-the-art, well-established, CEC 2017 winner algorithms and recent optimization algorithms. The results demonstrate that the MTV-SCA outperforms the traditional SCA and other optimization algorithms in terms of convergence speed, accuracy, and the capability to avoid premature convergence. Moreover, the Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were employed to statistically analyze the experimental results, validating that the MTV-SCA significantly surpasses other comparative algorithms. The real-world applicability of this algorithm is also demonstrated by optimizing six non-convex constrained optimization problems in engineering design. The experimental results indicate that MTV-SCA can effectively handle complex optimization challenges.