Quantum-Inspired Evolutionary Algorithms for Optimization
Jincheng Zhang
Abstract
This paper investigates the potential of incorporating quantum mechanical concepts into evolutionary algorithms (EAs) to improve their optimization capabilities. Traditional EAs, while effective, often struggle with complex search spaces and can get trapped in local optima. We propose a framework for developing quantum-inspired EAs that leverages principles such as superposition and entanglement to enhance exploration and exploitation strategies. The core idea is to introduce probabilistic operators and adaptive parameter control mimicking quantum behaviors. We present a detailed description of the proposed algorithm, focusing on the mathematical formulation of the key components, including the representation of solutions, the selection process, and the mutation operator. The algorithm's performance is evaluated on several benchmark optimization problems, demonstrating its potential to outperform conventional EAs in scenarios demanding high accuracy and rapid convergence. Furthermore, we analyze the theoretical implications of this approach, highlighting the advantages derived from quantum-inspired mechanisms. This work contributes to the ongoing research at the intersection of evolutionary computation and quantum information theory, offering a novel approach to tackling complex optimization challenges.