Diversity and Mechanisms in Swarm Intelligence
Swarm intelligence based algorithms such as particle swarm optimization have become popular in the last two decades. Various new algorithms such as cuckoo search and bat algorithm also show promising efficiency. In all these algorithms, it is essential to maintain the balance of exploration and exploitation by controlling directly and indirectly the diversity of the population. Different algorithms may use different mechanisms to control such diversity. In this review paper, the author reviews and analyzes the roles of diversity and relevant mechanisms in swarm intelligence. The author also discuss parameter tuning and parameter control. In addition, the author highlights some key open questions in swarm intelligence.