Coyote and Badger Optimization (CBO): A natural inspired meta-heuristic algorithm based on cooperative hunting

Optimization techniques play a pivotal role in refining problem-solving methods across various domains. These methods have demonstrated their efficacy in addressing real-world complexities. Continuous efforts are made to create and enhance techniques in the realm of research. This paper introduces a novel technique that distinguishes itself through its clarity, logical mathematical structure, and robust mathematical equations, particularly in the second phase. This study presents the development of a new metaheuristic algorithm named Coyote and Badger Optimization (CBO). CBO draws inspiration from the cooperative behaviors observed in honey badgers and coyotes, with a specific focus on their intriguing communication process. Utilizing the inherent traits of these animals, the proposed CBO algorithm offers an intuitive and effective solution for addressing engineering optimization challenges by providing the best fitness values. To validate CBO's effectiveness in real-time applications, complex engineering problems called pressure vessel design, feature selection in medical system, and tension-compression spring design are used as case studies for testing the proposed CBO compared to other recent algorithms. Additionally, ten benchmark functions and also statistical analysis methods (mean, standard deviation, confidence intervals, t-test, and Wilcoxon test) are used. Experimental results demonstrate that the CBO algorithm surpasses eleven recent algorithms when subjected to common ten benchmark functions. Additionally, CBO outperforms other recent eleven algorithms according to three different case studies. According to the ten benchmark functions (F1 to F10), CBO provides the minimum fitness values which are closed to the exact (standard) values; 0, 0, 0.003, 0.0002, -1.0316, 3.0058, 0.398, 0.02, 0.00076, and 0.000725 respectively. Related to statistical analysis, CBO provides the best mean, standard deviation, confidence intervals, t-test, and Wilcoxon test values. According to case studies, CBO provided the minimum cost value for pressure vessel design, the maximum accuracy value for feature selection, and the minimum cost value for spring design. Hence, CBO superiors other recent algorithms.