Optimizing Bucket Elevator Performance through a Blend of Discrete Element Method, Response Surface Methodology, and Firefly Algorithm Approaches

This research introduces a novel approach to enhancing bucket elevator design and operation through the integration of discrete element method(DEM)simulation,design of experiments(DOE),and metaheuristic optimization algorithms.Specifically,the study employs the firefly algorithm(FA),a metaheuristic optimization technique,to optimize bucket elevator parameters for maximizing transport mass and mass flow rate discharge of granular materials under specified working conditions.The experimental methodology involves several key steps:screening experiments to identify significant factors affecting bucket elevator operation,central composite design(CCD)experiments to further explore these factors,and response surface methodology(RSM)to create predictive models for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge.The FA algorithm is then applied to optimize these models,and the results are validated through simulation and empirical experiments.The study validates the optimized parameters through simulation and empirical experiments,comparing results with DEM simulation.The outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of the FA algorithm in identifying optimal bucket parameters,showcasing less than 10%and 15%deviation for transport mass and mass flow rate discharge,respectively,between predicted and actual values.Overall,this research provides insights into the critical factors influencing bucket elevator operation and offers a systematic methodology for optimizing bucket parameters,contributing to more efficient material handling in various industrial applications.

Shape and Size Optimization of Truss Structures under Frequency Constraints Based on Hybrid Sine Cosine Firefly Algorithm

Shape and size optimization with frequency constraints is a highly nonlinear problem withmixed design variables,non-convex search space,and multiple local optima.Therefore,a hybrid sine cosine firefly algorithm(HSCFA)is proposed to acquire more accurate solutions with less finite element analysis.The full attraction model of firefly algorithm(FA)is analyzed,and the factors that affect its computational efficiency and accuracy are revealed.A modified FA with simplified attraction model and adaptive parameter of sine cosine algorithm(SCA)is proposed to reduce the computational complexity and enhance the convergence rate.Then,the population is classified,and different populations are updated by modified FA and SCA respectively.Besides,the random search strategy based on Lévy flight is adopted to update the stagnant or infeasible solutions to enhance the population diversity.Elitist selection technique is applied to save the promising solutions and further improve the convergence rate.Moreover,the adaptive penalty function is employed to deal with the constraints.Finally,the performance of HSCFA is demonstrated through the numerical examples with nonstructural masses and frequency constraints.The results show that HSCFA is an efficient and competitive tool for shape and size optimization problems with frequency constraints.

Optimization of Cognitive Radio System Using Enhanced Firefly Algorithm

The optimization of cognitive radio(CR)system using an enhanced firefly algorithm(EFA)is presented in this work.The Firefly algorithm(FA)is a nature-inspired algorithm based on the unique light-flashing behavior of fireflies.It has already proved its competence in various optimization prob-lems,but it suffers from slow convergence issues.To improve the convergence performance of FA,a new variant named EFA is proposed.The effectiveness of EFA as a good optimizer is demonstrated by optimizing benchmark functions,and simulation results show its superior performance compared to biogeography-based optimization(BBO),bat algorithm,artificial bee colony,and FA.As an application of this algorithm to real-world problems,EFA is also applied to optimize the CR system.CR is a revolutionary technique that uses a dynamic spectrum allocation strategy to solve the spectrum scarcity problem.However,it requires optimization to meet specific performance objectives.The results obtained by EFA in CR system optimization are compared with results in the literature of BBO,simulated annealing,and genetic algorithm.Statistical results further prove that the proposed algorithm is highly efficient and provides superior results.

A Modified Firefly Optimization Algorithm-Based Fuzzy Packet Scheduler for MANET

In Mobile ad hoc Networks(MANETs),the packet scheduling process is considered the major challenge because of error-prone connectivity among mobile nodes that introduces intolerable delay and insufficient throughput with high packet loss.In this paper,a Modified Firefly Optimization Algorithm improved Fuzzy Scheduler-based Packet Scheduling(MFPA-FSPS)Mechanism is proposed for sustaining Quality of Service(QoS)in the network.This MFPA-FSPS mechanism included a Fuzzy-based priority scheduler by inheriting the merits of the Sugeno Fuzzy inference system that potentially and adaptively estimated packets’priority for guaranteeing optimal network performance.It further used the modified Firefly Optimization Algorithm to optimize the rules uti-lized by the fuzzy inference engine to achieve the potential packet scheduling pro-cess.This adoption of a fuzzy inference engine used dynamic optimization that guaranteed excellent scheduling of the necessitated packets at an appropriate time with minimized waiting time.The statistical validation of the proposed MFPA-FSPS conducted using a one-way Analysis of Variance(ANOVA)test confirmed its predominance over the benchmarked schemes used for investigation.

Adaptive Kernel Firefly Algorithm Based Feature Selection and Q-Learner Machine Learning Models in Cloud

CC’s(Cloud Computing)networks are distributed and dynamic as signals appear/disappear or lose significance.MLTs(Machine learning Techniques)train datasets which sometime are inadequate in terms of sample for inferring information.A dynamic strategy,DevMLOps(Development Machine Learning Operations)used in automatic selections and tunings of MLTs result in significant performance differences.But,the scheme has many disadvantages including continuity in training,more samples and training time in feature selections and increased classification execution times.RFEs(Recursive Feature Eliminations)are computationally very expensive in its operations as it traverses through each feature without considering correlations between them.This problem can be overcome by the use of Wrappers as they select better features by accounting for test and train datasets.The aim of this paper is to use DevQLMLOps for automated tuning and selections based on orchestrations and messaging between containers.The proposed AKFA(Adaptive Kernel Firefly Algorithm)is for selecting features for CNM(Cloud Network Monitoring)operations.AKFA methodology is demonstrated using CNSD(Cloud Network Security Dataset)with satisfactory results in the performance metrics like precision,recall,F-measure and accuracy used.

Defect image segmentation using multilevel thresholding based on firefly algorithm with opposition-learning

To segment defects from the quad flat non-lead QFN package surface a multilevel Otsu thresholding method based on the firefly algorithm with opposition-learning is proposed. First the Otsu thresholding algorithm is expanded to a multilevel Otsu thresholding algorithm. Secondly a firefly algorithm with opposition-learning OFA is proposed.In the OFA opposite fireflies are generated to increase the diversity of the fireflies and improve the global search ability. Thirdly the OFA is applied to searching multilevel thresholds for image segmentation. Finally the proposed method is implemented to segment the QFN images with defects and the results are compared with three methods i.e. the exhaustive search method the multilevel Otsu thresholding method based on particle swarm optimization and the multilevel Otsu thresholding method based on the firefly algorithm. Experimental results show that the proposed method can segment QFN surface defects images more efficiently and at a greater speed than that of the other three methods.

Rayleigh wave nonlinear inversion based on the Firefly algorithm

Rayleigh waves have high amplitude, low frequency, and low velocity, which are treated as strong noise to be attenuated in reflected seismic surveys. This study addresses how to identify useful shear wave velocity profile and stratigraphic information from Rayleigh waves. We choose the Firefly algorithm for inversion of surface waves. The Firefly algorithm, a new type of particle swarm optimization, has the advantages of being robust, highly effective, and allows global searching. This algorithm is feasible and has advantages for use in Rayleigh wave inversion with both synthetic models and field data. The results show that the Firefly algorithm, which is a robust and practical method, can achieve nonlinear inversion of surface waves with high resolution.

Path planning in uncertain environment by using firefly algorithm

Autonomous mobile robot navigation is one of the most emerging areas of research by using swarm intelligence. Path planning and obstacle avoidance are most researched current topics like navigational challenges for mobile robot. The paper presents application and implementation of Firefly Algorithm(FA)for Mobile Robot Navigation(MRN) in uncertain environment. The uncertainty is defined over the changing environmental condition from static to dynamic. The attraction of one firefly towards the other firefly due to variation of their brightness is the key concept of the proposed study. The proposed controller efficiently explores the environment and improves the global search in less number of iterations and hence it can be easily implemented for real time obstacle avoidance especially for dynamic environment. It solves the challenges of navigation, minimizes the computational calculations, and avoids random moving of fireflies. The performance of proposed controller is better in terms of path optimality when compared to other intelligent navigational approaches.

Design of a Proportional-Integral-Derivative Controller for an Automatic Generation Control of Multi-area Power Thermal Systems Using Firefly Algorithm

Essentially, it is significant to supply the consumer with reliable and sufficient power. Since, power quality is measured by the consistency in frequency and power flow between control areas. Thus, in a power system operation and control,automatic generation control(AGC) plays a crucial role. In this paper, multi-area(Five areas: area 1, area 2, area 3, area 4 and area 5) reheat thermal power systems are considered with proportional-integral-derivative(PID) controller as a supplementary controller. Each area in the investigated power system is equipped with appropriate governor unit, turbine with reheater unit, generator and speed regulator unit. The PID controller parameters are optimized by considering nature bio-inspired firefly algorithm(FFA). The experimental results demonstrated the comparison of the proposed system performance(FFA-PID)with optimized PID controller based genetic algorithm(GAPID) and particle swarm optimization(PSO) technique(PSOPID) for the same investigated power system. The results proved the efficiency of employing the integral time absolute error(ITAE) cost function with one percent step load perturbation(1 % SLP) in area 1. The proposed system based FFA achieved the least settling time compared to using the GA or the PSO algorithms, while, it attained good results with respect to the peak overshoot/undershoot. In addition, the FFA performance is improved with the increased number of iterations which outperformed the other optimization algorithms based controller.

Opposition-Based Firefly Algorithm for Earth Slope Stability Evaluation

This paper introduces a new approach of firefly algorithm based on opposition-based learning （OBFA） to enhance the global search ability of the original algorithm. The new algorithm employs opposition based learning concept to generate initial population and also updating agents’ positions. The proposed OBFA is applied for minimization of the factor of safety and search for critical failure surface in slope stability analysis. The numerical experiments demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the new algorithm.

Repulsive firefly algorithm-based optimal switching device placement in power distribution systems

To achieve optimal configuration of switching devices in a power distribution system,this paper proposes a repulsive firefly algorithm-based optimal switching device placement method.In this method,the influence of territorial repulsion during firefly courtship is considered.The algorithm is practically applied to optimize the position and quantity of switching devices,while avoiding its convergence to the local optimal solution.The experimental simulation results have showed that the proposed repulsive firefly algorithm is feasible and effective,with satisfying global search capability and convergence speed,holding potential applications in setting value calculation of relay protection and distribution network automation control.

Optimizing Software Effort Estimation Models Using Firefly Algorithm

Software development effort estimation is considered a fundamental task for software development life cycle as well as for managing project cost, time and quality. Therefore, accurate estimation is a substantial factor in projects success and reducing the risks. In recent years, software effort estimation has received a considerable amount of attention from researchers?and became a challenge for software industry. In the last two decades, many researchers and practitioners proposed statistical and machine learning-based models for software effort estimation. In this work, Firefly Algorithm is proposed as a metaheuristic optimization method for optimizing the parameters of three COCOMO-based models. These models include the basic COCOMO model and other two models proposed in the literature as extensions of the basic COCOMO model. The developed estimation models are evaluated using different evaluation metrics. Experimental results show high accuracy and significant error minimization of Firefly Algorithm over other metaheuristic optimization algorithms including Genetic Algorithms and Particle Swarm Optimization.

Network Hot Topic Discovery of Fuzzy Clustering Based on Improved Firefly Algorithm

The existing fuzzy clustering algorithm (FCM) is sensitive to the initial center point. And simple clustering of distance can neither discovery hot topics on the Network accurately nor solve the problem of semantic diversity in Chinese. Aiming at these problems, an improved fuzzy clustering method based on dynamic adaptive step firefly algorithm (FA) was proposed. The clustering center was optimized by improved FA, and the FCM was used to complete the final clustering. First, the step length was adjusted adaptively in the current iteration, and the relationship between fireflies was established according to text similarity, then the topic influence value was applied to fuzzy clustering algorithm to improve fitness function optimization. In this process the topic was categorized into the closest class to the cluster center, which can reduce the impact of topic variation. Finally, according to the level of influence value got hot topics. By collecting real data from Sina micro-blog, the effectiveness of the algorithm was verified by experiments, and the accuracy of topic discovery was improved greatly.

A Novel Binary Firefly Algorithm for the Minimum Labeling Spanning Tree Problem

Given a connected undirected graph G whose edges are labeled,the minimumlabeling spanning tree(MLST)problemis to find a spanning tree of G with the smallest number of different labels.TheMLST is anNP-hard combinatorial optimization problem,which is widely applied in communication networks,multimodal transportation networks,and data compression.Some approximation algorithms and heuristics algorithms have been proposed for the problem.Firefly algorithm is a new meta-heuristic algorithm.Because of its simplicity and easy implementation,it has been successfully applied in various fields.However,the basic firefly algorithm is not suitable for discrete problems.To this end,a novel discrete firefly algorithm for the MLST problem is proposed in this paper.A binary operation method to update firefly positions and a local feasible handling method are introduced,which correct unfeasible solutions,eliminate redundant labels,and make the algorithm more suitable for discrete problems.Computational results show that the algorithm has good performance.The algorithm can be extended to solve other discrete optimization problems.

The Objective Function Value Optimization of Cloud Computing Resources Security Allocation of Artificial Firefly Algorithm

Based on the current cloud computing resources security distribution model’s problem that the optimization effect is not high and the convergence is not good, this paper puts forward a cloud computing resources security distribution model based on improved artificial firefly algorithm. First of all, according to characteristics of the artificial fireflies swarm algorithm and the complex method, it incorporates the ideas of complex method into the artificial firefly algorithm, uses the complex method to guide the search of artificial fireflies in population, and then introduces local search operator in the firefly mobile mechanism, in order to improve the searching efficiency and convergence precision of algorithm. Simulation results show that, the cloud computing resources security distribution model based on improved artificial firefly algorithm proposed in this paper has good convergence effect and optimum efficiency.

Second Law Analysis and Optimization of Elliptical Pin Fin Heat Sinks Using Firefly Algorithm

One of the most significant considerations in the design of a heat sink is thermal management due to increasing thermal flux and miniature in size.These heat sinks utilize plate or pin fins depending upon the required heat dissipation rate.They are designed to optimize overall performance.Elliptical pin fin heat sinks enhance heat transfer rates and reduce the pumping power.In this study,the Firefly Algorithm is implemented to optimize heat sinks with elliptical pin-fins.The pin-fins are arranged in an inline fashion.The nature-inspired metaheuristic algorithm performs powerfully and efficiently in solving numerical global optimization problems.Based on mass,energy,and entropy balance,three models are developed for thermal resistance,hydraulic resistance,and entropy generation rate in the heat sink.The major axis is used as the characteristic length,and the maximum velocity is used as the reference velocity.The entropy generation rate comprises the combined effect of thermal resistance and pressure drop.The total EGR is minimized by utilizing the firefly algorithm.The optimization model utilizes analytical/empirical correlations for the heat transfer coefficients and friction factors.It is shown that both thermal resistance and pressure drop can be simultaneously optimized using this algorithm.It is demonstrated that the performance of FFA is much better than PPA.

An Evolutionary Firefly Algorithm, Goal Programming Optimization Approach for Setting the Osmotic Dehydration Parameters of Papaya

An evolutionary nature-inspired Firefly Algorithm (FA) is employed to set the optimal osmotic dehydration parameters in a case study of papaya. In the case, the functional form of the dehydration model is established via a response surface technique with the resulting optimization formulation being a non-linear goal programming model. For optimization, a computationally efficient, FA-driven method is employed and the resulting solution is shown to be superior to those from previous approaches for determining the osmotic process parameters. The final component of this study provides a computational experimentation performed on the FA to illustrate the relative sensitivity of this evolutionary metaheuristic approach over a range of the two key parameters that most influence its running time-the number of iterations and the number of fireflies. This sensitivity analysis revealed that for intermediate-to-high values of either of these two key parameters, the FA would always determine overall optimal solutions, while lower values of either parameter would generate greater variability in solution quality. Since the running time complexity of the FA is polynomial in the number of fireflies but linear in the number of iterations, this experimentation shows that it is more computationally practical to run the FA using a “reasonably small” number of fireflies together with a relatively larger number of iterations than the converse.

Robust Digital Audio Watermarking Based on SVD and Modified Firefly Algorithm

Digital Watermarking is a technology, to facilitate the authentication, copyright protection and Security of digital media. The objective of developing a robust watermarking technique is to incorporate the maximum possible robustness without compromising with the transparency. Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) using Firefly Algorithm provides this objective of an optimal robust watermarking technique. Multiple scaling factors are used to embed the watermark image into the host by multiplying these scaling factors with the Singular Values (SV) of the host audio. Firefly Algorithm is used to optimise the modified host audio to achieve the highest possible robustness and transparency. This approach can significantly increase the quality of watermarked audio and provide more robustness to the embedded watermark against various attacks such as noise, resampling, filtering attacks etc.

Hybrid Clustering Using Firefly Optimization and Fuzzy C-Means Algorithm

Classifying the data into a meaningful group is one of the fundamental ways of understanding and learning the valuable information. High-quality clustering methods are necessary for the valuable and efficient analysis of the increasing data. The Firefly Algorithm (FA) is one of the bio-inspired algorithms and it is recently used to solve the clustering problems. In this paper, Hybrid F-Firefly algorithm is developed by combining the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) with FA to improve the clustering accuracy with global optimum solution. The Hybrid F-Firefly algorithm is developed by incorporating FCM operator at the end of each iteration in FA algorithm. This proposed algorithm is designed to utilize the goodness of existing algorithm and to enhance the original FA algorithm by solving the shortcomings in the FCM algorithm like the trapping in local optima and sensitive to initial seed points. In this research work, the Hybrid F-Firefly algorithm is implemented and experimentally tested for various performance measures under six different benchmark datasets. From the experimental results, it is observed that the Hybrid F-Firefly algorithm significantly improves the intra-cluster distance when compared with the existing algorithms like K-means, FCM and FA algorithm.

Firefly Algorithm in Determining Maximum Load Utilization Point and Its Enhancement through Optimal Placement of FACTS Device

In a Power System, load is the most uncertain and extremely time varying unit. Hence it is important to determine the system’s supreme acceptable loadability limit called maximum loadability point to accommodate the sudden variation of load demand. Nowadays the enhancement of the maximum loadability point is essential to meet the rapid growth of load demand by improvising the system’s load utilization capacity. Flexible AC Transmission system devices (FACTS) with their speed and flexibility will play a key role in enhancing the controllability and power transfer capability of the system. Considering the theme of FACTS devices in the loadability limit enhancement, in this paper maximum loadability limit determination and its enhancement are prepared with the help of swarm intelligence based meta-heuristic Firefly Algorithm(FFA) by finding the optimal loading factor for each load and optimally placing the SVC (Shunt Compensation) and TCSC (Series Compensation) FACTS devices in the system. To illuminate the effectiveness of FACTS devices in the loadability enhancement, the line contingency scenario is also concerned in the study. The study of FACTS based maximum system load utilization acceptability point determination is demonstrated with the help of modified IEEE 30 bus, IEEE 57 Bus and IEEE 118 Bus test systems. The results of FACTS devices involvement in determining the maximum loading point enhance the load utilization point in normal state and also help to overcome the system violation in transmissionline contingency state. Also the firefly algorithm in determining the maximum loadability point provides better search capability with faster convergence rate compared to that of Particle swarm optimization (PSO) and Differential evolution algorithm.