This paper presents comparative assessment of the performance characteristics of two optimization algorithms, namely a deterministic nonlinear least squares (NLS) optimization and a stochastic adaptive simulated (ASA) annealing global optimization, implemented in the context of a two-stage structural damage severity estimation approach. First, both the standard NLS and global ASA optimization a...

We study a new class of decentralized algorithms for discrete optimization via simulation, which is inspired by the fictitious play algorithm applied to games with identical interests. In this approach, each component of the solution vector of the optimization model is artificially assumed to have a corresponding “player,” and the interaction of these players in simulation allows for exploratio...

design and optimization of a single crystalline silicon (c-si) solar cell is performed to achieve the maximum light conversion efficiency. various parameters such as doping concentration and thicknesses, and geometrical dimension of surface pyramids are studied. the inverted surface pyramid is used to increase the efficiency of the solar cell, and engineered oxide layer is used as the passivati...

No legged walking robot yet approaches the high reliability and the low power usage of a walking person, even on flat ground. Here we describe a robot which makes small progress towards that goal. Ranger is a knee-less 4-legged ‘bipedal’ robot which is energetically and computationally autonomous, except for radio controled steering. It has a total cost of transport [TCOT ≡ P/mgv] of 0.19, less...

Motion planning is a key element of robotics since it empowers a robot to navigate autonomously. Particle Swarm Optimization is a simple, yet a very powerful optimization technique which has been effectively used in many complex multi-dimensional optimization problems. This paper proposes a path planning algorithm based on particle swarm optimization for computing a shortest collision-free path...

Packet sequence disruption caused by route optimization may result in degradation of mobile TCP/IP performance. In this paper, we propose an analytic model to investigate the impact of route optimization on out-of-order packet delivery in Mobile IP networks. When a mobile node (MN) moves to a new location, the packets sent from the corresponding node (CN) to the MN are routed indirectly through...

Simulation optimization is providing solutions to important practical problems previously beyond reach. This paper explores how new approaches are significantly expanding the power of simulation optimization for managing risk. Recent advances in simulation optimization technology are leading to new opportunities to solve problems more effectively. Specifically, in applications involving risk an...

optimization of maintenance resources to maximize the system availability is a major concern in different manufacturing systems. therefore, a lot of effort is put to construct optimization models to reach the maximum availability level and to reduce the costs of lack of availability. however, despite these efforts, data uncertainty in the real world problems was neglected in proposed models whi...

Traffic signal timing optimization has been recognized as one of the most cost-effective methods for improving mobility within the urban transportation system. Inappropriate signal timing plans can cause not only discomfort (extra delay) to drivers but also increased emissions and fuel consumption. Thus, it is important to investigate the practice of signal optimization methodology to ensure th...