ROLE OF DATA-BASE MANAGEMENT IN DESIGN OPTIMIZATION SYSTEMS

To study the role of data base and data base management system, an interactive design optimization software system called IDESIGN5 is developed to solve nonlinear programming problems. Four promising algorithms are included to overcome the lack of unanimous choice of an algorithm. Tuning parameters and procedures of algorithms are implemented through extensive numerical experimentation. The interactive process consists of menu displays, advice for decisions, and applicable messages. Input data can be created interactively and the designer can change problem parameters, algorithm, and design variable data at any point of execution. If a design variable does not effect the optimization process, it can be given a fixed value interactively. Discrete variable optimization can be performed by using design variable status capability of the system. Graphics facilities are provided for decision making.