The field of optimization is interdisciplinary in nature, and has been making a significant impact on many disciplines. As a result, it is an indispensable tool for many practitioners in various fields. Conventional optimization techniques have been well established and widely published in many excellent textbooks. However, there are new techniques, such as neural networks, simulated anneal ing, stochastic machines, mean field theory, and genetic algorithms, which have been proven to be effective in solving global optimization problems. This book is intended to provide a technical description...

The field of optimization is interdisciplinary in nature, and has been making a significant impact on many disciplines. As a result, it is an indispensable tool for many practitioners in various fields. Conventional optimization techniques have been well established and widely published in many excellent textbooks. However, there are new techniques, such as neural networks, simulated anneal- ing, stochastic machines, mean field theory, and genetic algorithms, which have been proven to be effective in solving global optimization problems. This book is intended to provide a technical...