Course detail

Optimization Methods and Queuing Theory

FEKT-DKA-TK1Acad. year: 2023/2024

This study unit is made of two main parts. The first part deals with various currently used optimization methods. Students are first introduced to general Optimization theory. Then various forms of Mathematical Programming are dealt with. After the introduction into Linear and Integer Programming, the attention is given to Nonlinear Programming from its backgrounds like Convexity Theory and optimization conditions to overview and practical use of various optimization algorithms. A practically oriented introduction into Dynamic Programming with finite horizon follows. Students are also introduced into backgrounds of Stochastic Programming and Dynamic programming with infinite horizon, in particular to methods of solving Bellman's equations. The first part is closed by introduction to heuristic optimization algorithms.
The second part of the unit deals with the Queuing Theory. Various models of single queue systems and queuing networks are derived. The theory is then used by solving practical problems. Students are also introduced into simulation methods that are the only feasible solution method when a theoretical model is not available.

Guarantor

doc. Ing. Jaroslav Sklenář, CSc.

Department

Department of Telecommunications (UTKO)

Offered to foreign students

The home faculty only

Learning outcomes of the course unit

Obtaining the skills of studying, understanding, and applying mathematical models as specified in the unit contents. Ability to build mathematical programs solving particular optimization problems. Ability to use software packages that solve mathematical programs. In case of Queuing Theory it is understanding of the mathematical models and ability to apply them in practice.

Prerequisites

Proficiency in mathematical disciplines at M.Eng. level

Co-requisites

Not applicable.

Recommended optional programme components

Not applicable.

Literature

Popela, P., Sklenář, J.: Optimization. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2003. (EN)
Sklenář, J.: Dynamic Programming Theory and Applications. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2017. (EN)
Popela, P.: Nonlinear Programming. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2003. (EN)
Attard, N., Sklenář, J.: Linear Programming. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2007. (EN)
Sklenář, J.: Introduction to Integer Linear Programming. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2017. (EN)
Sklenář, J.: Infinite Horizon Dynamic Programming Models. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2017. (EN)
Popela, P.: Stochastic Programming. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2008. (EN)
Sklenář, J.: Queuing Theory. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2016. (EN)
Sklenář, J.: Queuing Theory - Worksheets. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2016. (EN)
Sklenář, J.: Network Flow Models. Teaching notes, University of Malta, 2017. (EN)

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Teaching methods depend on the type of course unit as specified in the article 7 of BUT Rules for Studies and Examinations.

Assesment methods and criteria linked to learning outcomes

examination

Language of instruction

English

Work placements

Not applicable.

Course curriculum

1. Optimization Theory. Terminology, various types and existence of solutions (Weierstrass theorem). Methods based on Calculus.
2. Linear Programming. Theory and Simplex Method.
3. Integer Programming. Solution methods and use of indicator variables in building models that are out of scope of Linear Programming (models with logical conditions, disjunctive constraints, and similar.)
4. Theory of Nonlinear Programming. Convex sets and functions, optimality conditions.
5. Optimization algorithms of Nonlinear Programming and their application.
6. Dynamic Programming with finite horizon. Introduction to recursion, solution of various practical problems by the methods of Dynamic Programming.
7. Introduction to Stochastic Programming. Terminology, basic forms of Deterministic Equivalents and their solution.
8. Introduction to Dynamic Programming with infinite horizon. Terminology, Markov Decision Process, Bellman's equations and their solution.
9. Heuristic optimization algorithms as a method to solve problem of local optima (genetic and similar algorithms based on populations of solutions).
10. Basics of Queuing Theory, introduction to stochastic processes, Poisson process in detail.
11. Models of simple single queue systems (model M/M/1 and similar).
12. Advanced single queue models (M/G/1, G/M/1 and similar). Network models, Jackson theorem.
13. Simulation methods and their use in analysis of queuing systems.

Aims

Developing awareness of various optimization methods from their mathematical background to their application in solving practical problems.
Developing awareness of mathematical models of Queuing Theory and their use in solving technical problems including simulation methods.

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme DKA-KAM Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKA-EKT Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKA-EIT Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKAD-EIT Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKA-MET Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKA-SEE Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKA-TLI Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional
  • Programme DKA-TEE Doctoral, any year of study, winter semester, 4 credits, compulsory-optional

Type of course unit

 

Guided consultation

39 hours, optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

doc. Ing. Jaroslav Sklenář, CSc.