The algorithms in Optimization Process Composer seek to vary a set of parameters (design variables) to drive output parameters (objectives) in a desired direction. Objectives can be minimized, maximized, or driven toward a target value. Some other output parameters can also serve as design constraints, requiring that they lie within prescribed ranges. The algorithms in Optimization Process Composer make decisions about which designs to consider based on the results of previous iterations of the optimization loop. As such, the exact set of simulations that will be run by the algorithm is not known ahead of time. Several major classes of optimization algorithms are available in Optimization Process Composer, including gradient-based numerical techniques, direct search techniques, exploratory techniques, and hybrid combinations of these. This approach assures that most of the needs of the optimization design engineer are covered by the Optimization adapter. | ||||||||||