Global Optimization

Global optimization is a branch of applied mathematics and numerical analysis that aims to find at a given set the global minimum or maximum of a function or set of functions. It is usually defined as a minimization problem, as maximizing the real-valued function is obviously equivalent to minimizing the function. Global optimization aims to find the best solution of (possibly nonlinear) models globally, in the (possible or known) presence of multiple local optima. Formal, global optimisation seeks a restricted optimization model 's global solution(s). In many applications, nonlinear models are omnipresent, for example in advanced engineering design, scientific modeling, biotechnology, financial planning, environmental management, process control, risk management, and others. Their solution often demands a global approach to searching.