Formulations for Surrogate-Based Optimization with Data Fit, Multifidelity, and Reduced-Order Models

Abstract

Surrogate-based optimization (SBO) methods have become established as effective techniques for engineering design problems through their ability to tame nonsmoothness and reduce computational expense. Possible surrogate modeling techniques include data fits (local, multipoint, or global), multifidelity model hierarchies, and reduced-order models, and each of these types has unique features when employed within SBO. This paper explores a number of SBO algorithmic variations and their effect for different surrogate modeling cases. First, general facilities for constraint management are explored through approximate subproblem formulations (e.g., direct surrogate), constraint relaxation techniques (e.g., homotopy), merit function selections (e.g., augmented Lagrangian), and iterate acceptance logic selections (e.g., filter methods). Second, techniques specialized to particular surrogate types are described. Computational results are presented for sets of algebraic test problems and an engineering design application solved using the DAKOTA software.