Optimal Design

Homework 1

Due Monday, March 20 at the start of class

1. Find the gradient vector and Hessian matrix for the function.
𝑓(𝑥) = 10𝑥1 3 + 3𝑥2 2 − 𝑥1 𝑥3 2 + 7𝑥2 𝑥3 − 6𝑥4 2

2. Graph the set of points

𝑆 = {𝒙 ∈ 𝑅2 | (𝑥1 − 5)2 + (𝑥2 − 3)2 ≤ 4}

You may draw the graph by hand or use software (e.g. MATLAB).

3. Re-formulate the problem of design of a two-bar bracket (Arora, pg. 30-36) using a rectangular
tube as the bar cross-sectional shape (Figure 2.6(c)).

4. Arora, Exercise 2.6 (Note: “markets for the products” means “maximum amount that can be
sold”. For example, no more than 70 kg of product A can be sold.)

5. Arora, Exercise 2.7

6. Arora, Exercise 2.14

Try to use as few design variables as possible in your problem formulations.