New squirrel search algorithm based on escape dynamics: Applied to optimal control

The optimal control as well know how dynamic optimization, has the aim to determine the optimal trajectory or profile of a control variable within a given time interval that minimizes or maximizes an objective functional. Although, the solution of optimal control problem can be approximated by applying optimization strategies, however, they must ensure its reliability in solving the problem. In this work, we apply for first time the original Squirrel Search Algorithm and a modified version proposed to solve optimal control problems. The proposed algorithm is based on a new escape behaviour, and it was tested on several benchmark problems from the area. To evaluate the robustness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm, this was evaluated and compared against the Cuckoo Search algorithm and the original algorithm. According to results, the modified algorithm proposed has a better performance and converges faster than others algorithms in dealing with optimal control problems.