Engineering Optimization Methods and Practice

This book describes (1) engineering optimization methods, (2) practice in structural optimization and applied mechanics, and (3) industrial practice in manufacturing technology. Beginning with an introduction to the fundamental concepts of engineering optimization, this book comprehensively explains various optimization methods, while the description of theoretical aspects is kept to the minimum to ensure readability for the reader in engineering fields. Multi-objective optimization is valid in engineering, and several methods are also described.

In practical applications, the objectives and design constraints are not explicitly known but can be evaluated through computationally intensive numerical simulation. In such scenarios, engineering optimization using surrogate model is highly effective. In particular, sequential approximate optimization, where the surrogate model is repeatedly constructed and optimized, attracts significant attention. This book primarily focuses on the method using radial basis function network, and discusses the key parameter (width in Gaussian kernel) for highly accurate surrogate model.

Furthermore, the book presents several practice in structural optimization, applied mechanics, sheet metal forming, forging, and plastic injection molding. This book comprehensively includes not only the basis and application of engineering optimization methods but also the practical applications. Several sample code in Python and VBA are also provided for hands-on learning. This book is written for graduate students, researchers, and engineers, and is a practical guide for engineering optimization. This book is also suited as a textbook for the graduate-level engineering optimization course.