Aims

To develop an understanding of the principles of standard optimisation techniques. To understand where the techniques can be beneficially applied.

Outline Of Syllabus

Preliminary mathematics (cost functions, matrices, vectors, Grad., Curl, Least Squares), EVOP, Problem formulation, Necessary and sufficient conditions, Unconstrained multivariable optimisation (gradient based techniques, gradient free), Constrained optimisation (Lagrange multipliers, penalty functions etc.), Linear Programming, Application areas (e.g. Optimisation of Reactors, Distillation trains, Predictive Control). Basic scheduling methods.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures convey the mathematical concepts and theory of optimisation and optimisation algorithms and methods, practical classes support this through illustration and allow completion of assignment work.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The assignments and project allow students to deploy acquired knowledge to solve more realistic engineering problems and also to gain experience of using appropriate software on a computer. They also develop the key skills listed above.