Conic Formulation for l p -Norm Optimization

In this paper, we formulate the l _p -norm optimization problem as a conic optimization problem, derive its duality properties (weak duality, zero duality gap, and primal attainment) using standard conic duality and show how it can be solved in polynomial time applying the framework of interior-point algorithms based on self-concordant barriers.     

Shape Optimization for Semi-Linear Elliptic Equations Based on an Embedding Domain Method

We study a class of shape optimization problems for semi-linear elliptic equations with Dirichlet boundary conditions in smooth domains in ℝ². A part of the boundary of the domain is variable as the graph of a smooth function. The problem is equivalently reformulated on a fixed domain. Continuity of the solution to the state equation with respect to domain variations is shown. This is used to obtain differentiability in the general case, and moreover a useful formula for the gradient of the cost functional in the case where the principal part of the differential operator is the Laplacian. Online publication 23 January 2004.     

Global Solution of Optimization Problems with Parameter-Embedded Linear Dynamic Systems

This paper develops a theory for the global solution of nonconvex optimization problems with parameter-embedded linear dynamic systems. A quite general problem formulation is introduced and a solution is shown to exists. A convexity theory for integrals is then developed to construct convex relaxations for utilization in a branch-and-bound framework to calculate a global minimum. Interval analysis is employed to generate bounds on the state variables implied by the bounds on the embedded parameters. These bounds, along with basic integration theory, are used to prove convergence of the branch-and-bound algorithm to the global minimum of the optimization problem. The implementation of the algorithm is then considered and several numerical case studies are examined thoroughly     

GA optimization on multi-segments muffler under space constraints

Whilst the space volume of muffler in noise control system is often constrained for maintenance in practical engineering work, the maximization on muffler’s performance becomes important and essential. In this paper, a novel approach genetic algorithms (GAs) based on the principles of natural biological evolution will be used to tackle this optimization of muffler design [M. Mitchell, An Introduction to Genetic Algorithms, The MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, 1996]. Here, the shape optimization of multi-segments muffler coupled with the GA searching technique is presented. The techniques of binary genetic algorithms (BGA) together with the commercial MATLAB package [G. Lindfield, J. Penny, Numerical Method Using Matlab, second ed., Prentice Hall, Englewood Cliffs, NJ, 2000] are applied in GA searching. In addition, a numerical case of pure tone elimination with 2-5 segments on muffler is introduced and fully discussed. To achieve the best optimization in GA, several GA parameters are on trial in various values. Results show that the GA operators, including crossover mutation and elitism, are essential in accuracy. Consequently, results verify that the optimal sound transmission loss at the designed frequency of 500 Hz is exactly maximized. The GA optimization on multi-segments muffler proposed in this study surely provides a quick and correct approach.     

Heuristic Rejection in Interval Global Optimization

Based on the investigation carried out in Ref. 1, this paper incorporates new studies about the properties of inclusion functions on subintervals while a branch-and-bound algorithm is solving global optimization problems. It is found that the relative place of the global minimum value within the inclusion function value of the objective function at the current interval indicates mostly whether the given interval is close to a minimizer point. This information is used in a heuristic interval rejection rule that can save a considerable amount of computation. Illustrative examples are discussed and an extended numerical study shows the advantages of the new approach.     

A computational strategy for multiscale systems with applications to Lorenz 96 model

Numerical schemes for systems with multiple spatio-temporal scales are investigated. The multiscale schemes use asymptotic results for this type of systems which guarantee the existence of an effective dynamics for some suitably defined modes varying slowly on the largest scales. The multiscale schemes are analyzed in general, then illustrated on a specific example of a moderately large deterministic system displaying chaotic behavior due to Lorenz. Issues like consistency, accuracy, and efficiency are discussed in detail. The role of possible hidden slow variables as well as additional effects arising on the diffusive time-scale are also investigated. As a byproduct we obtain a rather complete characterization of the effective dynamics in Lorenz model.     

Structural optimization design for large mirror

The system design must be started from the concept with low cost and high performance. In this point, the topological shape of the structure is very important in the view of the structural rigidities and light-weight design.In this paper, the optimization methodology is presented in the design stage of the large optical mirror. We obtain the optimal layout through the topology optimization and then design the details through the size or shape optimization for structural rigidity.     

An experimental analysis of a population based approach for global optimization

In this paper we perform a computational analysis of a population based approach for global optimization, Population Basin Hopping (PBH), which was proven to be very efficient on very challenging global optimization problems by the authors (see ). The experimental analysis aims at understanding more deeply how the approach works and why it is successful on challenging problems.     

Solving a class of multiplicative programming problems via c-programming

In this note we show that many classes of global optimization problems can be treated most satisfactorily by classical optimization theory and conventional algorithms. We focus on the class of problems involving the minimization of the product of several convex functions on a convex set which was studied recently by Kunoet al. [3]. It is shown that these problems are typical composite concave programming problems and thus can be handled elegantly by c-programming [4]–[8] and its techniques.     

Pattern Search Method for Discrete <Emphasis Type="Italic">L</Emphasis><Subscript>1</Subscript>–Approximation

We propose a pattern search method to solve a classical nonsmooth optimization problem. In a deep analogy with pattern search methods for linear constrained optimization, the set of search directions at each iteration is defined in such a way that it conforms to the local geometry of the set of points of nondifferentiability near the current iterate. This is crucial to ensure convergence. The approach presented here can be extended to wider classes of nonsmooth optimization problems. Numerical experiments seem to be encouraging. This work was supported by M.U.R.S.T., Rome, Italy.