FOX: A Fox-inspired Optimization Algorithm

Abstract This paper proposes a novel nature-inspired optimization algorithm called the Fox optimizer (FOX) which mimics the foraging behavior of foxes in nature when hunting prey. The algorithm is based on techniques for measuring the distance between the fox and its prey to execute an efficient jump. After presenting the mathematical models and the algorithm of FOX, five classical benchmark functions and CEC2019 benchmark test functions are used to evaluate its performance. The FOX algorithm is also compared against the Dragonfly optimization Algorithm (DA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Fitness Dependent Optimizer (FDO), Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), Chimp Optimization Algorithm (ChOA), Butterfly Optimization Algorithm (BOA) and Genetic Algorithm (GA). The results indicate that FOX outperforms the above-mentioned algorithms. Subsequently, the Wilcoxon rank-sum test is used to ensure that FOX is better than the comparative algorithms in s statistically significant manner. Additionally, parameter sensitivity analysis is conducted to show different exploratory and exploitative behaviors in FOX. The paper also employs FOX to solve engineering problems, such as pressure vessel design, and it is also used to solve electrical power generation: economic load dispatch problems. The FOX has achieved better results in terms of optimizing the problems against GWO, PSO, WOA, and FDO.