A nonlinear digital optimizing program for process control systems

Abstract

This paper deals with nonlinear programming. In particular, it summarizes a newly developed program suitable for optimization of a computer-controlled process. The program applies probing and constraint-following algorithms which permit solving the optimization problem in difficult cases. These cases include nonlinear or discontinuous objective functions, constraint functions, and nonconvex domains. The program has become known as the "Poor Man's Optimizer," as it requires relatively little storage for program and data. It is applicable to the relatively small digital computers now popular in process control.