A search algorithm for the traveling salesman problem

Abstract A search algorithm, based on the concepts of lexicographic search and sequential decision processes, is proposed for the solution of the traveling salesman problem. Starting with an initial trial solution, the search algorithm sequentially generates better tours until an optimal (least cost) tour is identified. The logical structure of the search algorithm is such that the computational effort required to solve a problem by the proposed approach is less than that by the branch and bound procedures.