ME4731 Engineering Design Optimization

Application of automated numerical optimization techniques to design of engineering systems. Algorithms for solution of nonlinear constrained design problems. Familiarization with available design optimization programs. State-of-the-art applications. Solution of a variety of design problems in mechanical engineering, using numerical optimization techniques.

Prerequisite

ME2601or by consent of instructor

Lecture Hours

4

Lab Hours

0

Course Learning Outcomes

At the completion of the course students will be able to:

• Formulate an engineering design problem as an optimization. problem, identifying design variables, constraints and objective functions.
• Calculate the gradient and Hessian matrices for single- and multi-variable functions.
• Use the gradient and Hessian matrices in optimality criteria to identify stationary points and optimal points.
• Write a single-variable (line search) unconstrained search program.
• Construct search directions using basic optimization algorithms, including Cauchy’s method, Newton’s method, conjugate direction method, Powells Method.
• Write a multi-variable, unconstrained optimization program.
• Solve linear and nonlinear optimization problems using a commercial optimizer.