Course syllabus - Process optimization

Objectives

Optimization is a transferable skill which applies to all areas of engineering. Optimization of energy processes combines the knowledge from fields like heat and mass transfer, thermodynamics, economics and computational development. All these from an applied perspective. In the course we will see how and why to shift from a workable system to an optimal system. We will explore how optimization methods work and how to select the right method for a given case. Together we will develop computational tools for all the methods and will practically apply them on a variety of energy processes.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student should be able to:
- Identify and mathematically formulate optimization problems of energy technology processes
- Describe the principles of state-of-the-art optimization methods
- Select appropriate optimization methods for energy process problems
- Apply the knowledge on practical optimization problems in energy engineering
- Evaluate the results of optimized solutions

Course content

System modelling and iterative solution methods. Linear optimization and Simplex method. Nonlinear optimization and Lagrange multipliers. Dynamic optimization. Gradient-based optimization. Genetic algorithms. The methods are applied on energy systems including fluid machinery, thermal processes, powerplants and air transportation. The course includes hands-on software demonstrations and individual assignments.

Tuition

Lectures, seminars

Specific requirements

150 credits within an engineering program which includes 52,5 credits from energy engineering courses, whereas 7,5 credits from each of the courses Heat and Mass Transfer and Mechanics of Fluids or equivalent. Further, 7,5 credits from Applied thermodynamics and 22,5 credits in Mathematics/Applied mathematics where at least 7,5 credits must be Single Variable Calculus or equivalent. In addition Swedish 3 and English 6 are required. In cases where the course is given in English, exemption from the Swedish 3 is given.

Examination

Assignment (INL1), 7.5 credits, marks 3, 4 or 5
Written examination (TEN1), 3 credits, marks 3, 4 or 5.

A student who has a certificate from MDU regarding a disability has the opportunity to submit a request for supportive measures during written examinations or other forms of examination, in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for Examinations at First-cycle and Second-cycle Level at Mälardalen University (2020/1655). It is the examiner who takes decisions on any supportive measures, based on what kind of certificate is issued, and in that case which measures are to be applied.

Suspicions of attempting to deceive in examinations (cheating) are reported to the Vice-Chancellor, in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance, and are examined by the University’s Disciplinary Board. If the Disciplinary Board considers the student to be guilty of a disciplinary offence, the Board will take a decision on disciplinary action, which will be a warning or suspension.

Grade

Grading scale: 5, 4, 3

Interim Regulations and Other Regulations

Knowledge from the courses Heat and Power Technology 15 credits, Numerical Methods 7.5 credits and Programming 7.5 credits is desirable. Overlap with ERA303.