The Firefly Optimization Algorithm: Convergence Analysis and Parameter Selection

The bio-inspired optimization techniques have obtained great attention in recent years due to its robustness, simplicity and efficiency to solve complex optimization problems. The firefly Optimization (FA or FFA) algorithm is an optimization method with these features. The algorithm is inspired by the flashing behavior of fireflies. In the algorithm, randomly generated solutions will be considered as fireflies, and brightness is assigned depending on their performance on the objective function. The algorithm is analyzed on basis of performance and success rate using five standard benchmark functions by which guidelines of parameter selection are derived. The tradeoff between exploration and exploitation is illustrated and discussed. General Terms Optimization, metaheuristic, firefly algorithm, analysis, convergence, parameter selection, performance.