Optimizer Objective Function

The optimizer objective function is the expression which is to be maximized or minimized by changing the values of the variable parameters. The objective function may be a single flowsheet parameter or it may be the sum, difference, product or quotient of any two flowsheet parameters. In the latter case, the second parameter may be a constant value.

Complex objective functions may be specified by the use of a calculator unit. The calculator retrieves the flowsheet data, determines the current value of the objective function and sets this into its results array. The optimizer objective function is then set to this calculator result.

How to Specify an Objective Function

The objective function is set up by clicking on the text in the Objective Function box in the Optimizer Main Window.

1. By default, the objective function will be set equal to a single flowsheet parameter. To specify an expression, click on the "=" sign and select from the list.

2. Click on the "Parameter" text to open the Optimizer - Parameter Window in order to select the required parameter. After a selection is made, the "Parameter" text will be replaced by a text describing the selected parameter.

3. If you have specified an expression, click on the second "Parameter" text in order to select the other parameter or constant value.

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