Efficient Line Searching for Convex Functions

In this paper we propose two new line search methods for convex functions. These new methods exploit the convexity property of the function, contrary to existing methods.The worst method is an improved version of the golden section method.For the second method it is proven that after two evaluations the objective gap is at least halved.The practical efficiency of the methods is shown by applying our methods to a real-life bus and buffer size optimization problem and to several classes of convex functions.

On the Complexity of Optimization over the Standard Simplex

We review complexity results for minimizing polynomials over the standard simplex and unit hypercube.In addition, we show that there exists a polynomial time approximation scheme (PTAS) for minimizing Lipschitz continuous functions and functions with uniformly bounded Hessians over the standard simplex.This extends an earlier result by De Klerk, Laurent and Parrilo [A PTAS for the minimization of polynomials of fixed degree over the simplex, Theoretical Computer Science, to appear.]global optimization;standard simplex;PTAS;multivariate Bernstein approximation;semidefinite programming

Discrete Least-norm Approximation by Nonnegative (Trigonomtric) Polynomials and Rational Functions

Polynomials, trigonometric polynomials, and rational functions are widely used for the discrete approximation of functions or simulation models.Often, it is known beforehand, that the underlying unknown function has certain properties, e.g. nonnegative or increasing on a certain region.However, the approximation may not inherit these properties automatically.We present some methodology (using semidefinite programming and results from real algebraic geometry) for least-norm approximation by polynomials, trigonometric polynomials and rational functions that preserve nonnegativity.(trigonometric) polynomials;rational functions;semidefinite programming;regression;(Chebyshev) approximation

Robust Optimization Using Computer Experiments

During metamodel-based optimization three types of implicit errors are typically made.The first error is the simulation-model error, which is defined by the difference between reality and the computer model.The second error is the metamodel error, which is defined by the difference between the computer model and the metamodel.The third is the implementation error.This paper presents new ideas on how to cope with these errors during optimization, in such a way that the final solution is robust with respect to these errors.We apply the robust counterpart theory of Ben-Tal and Nemirovsky to the most frequently used metamodels: linear regression and Kriging models.The methods proposed are applied to the design of two parts of the TV tube.The simulationmodel errors receive little attention in the literature, while in practice these errors may have a significant impact due to propagation of such errors

Environmental sensitivity of n-i-n and undoped single GaN nanowire photodetectors

In this work, we compare the photodetector performance of single defect-free undoped and n-in GaN nanowires (NWs). In vacuum, undoped NWs present a responsivity increment, nonlinearities and persistent photoconductivity effects (~ 100 s). Their unpinned Fermi level at the m-plane NW sidewalls enhances the surface states role in the photodetection dynamics. Air adsorbed oxygen accelerates the carrier dynamics at the price of reducing the photoresponse. In contrast, in n-i-n NWs, the Fermi level pinning at the contact regions limits the photoinduced sweep of the surface band bending, and hence reduces the environment sensitivity and prevents persistent effects even in vacuum

Transformational Phenomena as Predictors of Aircraft Accidents: What Goes Around Comes Around

Flight crew confusion, excessive stressworkload, and ineffective Crew Resource Management among other issues arising from dependence on automated systems on the flight deck have been identified as major causal factors in multiple fatal accidents, significant incidents and near misses. Many Loss of Control events have been traced to display of erroneous flight data and auto-flight system mode status to the crew. Safety was compromised by not having sufficiently obvious and unambiguous information available in order to permit quick diagnosis of aircraft status and then appropriate action to regain control of the aircraft energy state or trajectory. Continually evolving training and operational requirements related to aircraft automation have also presented critical challenges to commercial aviation. During times of high demand and low supply of experienced pilots (which is today the case in South-East Asia, for instance), basic training in manual flight may be minimal and as low as a few hundred flight hours on light aircraft before beginning training on advanced, highly automated aircraft. Predominant use of automation may cause aircrew trained in this way to have trouble performing traditionally simple operations such as manually switching to other runways or overriding the autopilot in tight situations. Inadequate crew training andor experience coupled with attempted manual flight in highly automated airplanes may more easily lead to loss of aircraft control in unusual situations such as high-altitude stallsupsets, traffic avoidance or maneuvering. Loss of basic piloting skills through increasing dependence on automation may exacerbate this problem. Finally, design changes by nature take a long time and are very costly. Incorporating novel automated functionality into new aircraft designs is technically feasible and desirable. However, it may take many years for these changes to have a significant impact on tomorrows fleet, given the time it takes to develop a new aircraft and for these aircraft to become a significant fraction of the fleet. This paper will review and summarize the findings and recommendations from a 2004 study of the topic, Increasing reliance on flight deck automation conducted by the Future Aviation Safety Team at the behest of the Joint Safety Strategy Initiative (JSSI) within the Joint Aviation Authorities (JAA) organization that existed at the time. Although this study was conducted more than ten years ago, its findings and recommendations are as relevant now as then and into the future

Coordination of Coupled Black Box Simulations in the Construction of Metamodels

This paper introduces methods to coordinate black box simulations in the construction of metamodels for situations in which we have to deal with coupled black boxes.We de.ne three coordination methods: parallel simulation, sequential simulation and sequential modeling.To compare these three methods we focus on .ve aspects: throughput time, .exibility, simulated product designs, coordination complexityand the use of prior information.Special attention is given to the throughput time aspect.For this aspect we derive mathematical formulas and we give relations between the throughput times of the three coordination methods.At the end of this paper we summarize the results and give recommendations on the choice of a suitable coordination method.simulation;simulation models;coordination;black box;metamodels