Optimization 2016-2017

Lecturer: Zsófia Lendek

This course concerns numerical methods for optimization. It is part of the Bachelor of Science program of the Automation Department, UTCluj (4th year 2nd semester). As prerequisites, knowledge of analysis and linear algebra is needed, together with notions of Matlab programming. The responsible lecturer is Zsófia Lendek.

Grading:

• 30% project Project defense and lab re-sits: Monday, 4th September, 14:00-18:00, Dorobantilor str, room C01.
• 40% partial exam
• 30% final exam: Re-examination: Tuesday, 5th September, 17:00, Baritiu str, H11.
• Extra: lecture questions

The lecture notes are available below:

• Chapter 1: Analytical methods.
• Chapter 2: Numerical optimization.
• Chapter 3: Linear programming.
• Chapter 4: Quadratic programming.
• Chapter 5: Genetic algorithms and some kangaroos.
• Appendix: Matrix differentiation.

In the practical classes, a set of assignments must be solved. You may work in groups of at most 2. An exercises is completed when the method is implemented and the corresponding problem is solved. For a (very) short introduction of the algorithms to be used and examples, see the lab guide. The Matlab files corresponding to the second lab session are available here.

Project

This project aims to help students gaining experience with searching for literature, writing a survey, and presenting scientific work.

The project will be performed in groups of three students. Project material:

1. General project description (PDF). This description applies to all the topics; please read it carefully. A template for the final report in .doc can be found here and in .tex here.
2. Paper review form (DOC). Use this form to review the paper of your group.
3. Presentation review form (DOC). Use this form to review a presentation tryout of your group.
4. A single topic from the list below.

Each group of students will choose one topic from the following list. Have a look at the topics to determine which of them fit your background and preferences best. Select a topic and email your selection to Zsófia Lendek, including your names in the message. You will then receive a confirmation email that contains the title of the topic that has been allocated to your group. Your selection is not final until confirmed by the lecturer!

• Constraint handling in PSO: questions.
• PSO with linearly decreasing weights: questions.
• PSO_CRO hybrid: questions.
• Improved tabu search : questions.

The following topics have already been taken:

• NSGA-II for compilation optimization: questions.
• Oil production optimization: questions.
• Improved colliding bodies: questions.
• TLBO with variable population: questions.
• Multiobjective optimization: questions.
• Oil production optimization 2: questions.
• BB-BC for power systems: questions.
• Hybrid PSO: questions.

Comments, suggestions, questions etc. related to this course or website are welcome; please contact the lecturer.