A Novel HGW Optimizer with Enhanced Differential Perturbation for Efficient 3D UAV Path Planning

In general, path planning for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is modeled as a challenging optimization problem that is critical to ensuring efficient UAV mission execution. The challenge lies in the complexity and uncertainty of flight scenarios, particularly in three-dimensional scenarios. In this study, one introduces a framework for UAV path planning in a 3D environment. To tackle this challenge, we develop an innovative hybrid gray wolf optimizer (GWO) algorithm, named SDPGWO. The proposed algorithm simplifies the position update mechanism of GWO and incorporates a differential perturbation strategy into the search process, enhancing the optimization ability and avoiding local minima. Simulations conducted in various scenarios reveal that the SDPGWO algorithm excels in rapidly generating superior-quality paths for UAVs. In addition, it demonstrates enhanced robustness in handling complex 3D environments and outperforms other related algorithms in both performance and reliability.