An improved sparrow search algorithm with multi-strategy integration

Addressing the shortcomings of the Sparrow Search Algorithm (SSA), such as low accuracy of convergence and tendency of falling into local optimum, a Multi-strategy Integrated Sparrow Search Algorithm (MISSA) is proposed. In this method, by improving the black-winged kite algorithm and applying it to the producer's position update formula, an improved search strategy (ISS) is firstly proposed to enhance search ability. Secondly, a new strategy inspired by the Coot algorithm, called the group follow strategy (GFS), is proposed to improve the ability to jump out of the local optimum. Finally, a proposed random opposition-based learning strategy (ROBLS) is applied to the population after each iteration to enhance its diversity. To verify MISSA's effectiveness, extensive testing is conducted on 24 benchmark functions as well as CEC 2017 functions. The experimental results, complemented by Wilcoxon rank-sum tests, conclusively demonstrate that MISSA outperforms SSA and other advanced optimization algorithms, exhibiting superior overall performance.