LAMICHHANE, D. Optimization in engineering problems [online]. Brno: Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta strojního inženýrství. 2025.

Posudek vedoucího

Mrázková, Eva

The thesis focuses on the application of optimization methods to engineering design problems, with particular emphasis on structural design. The theoretical part of the thesis begins with an overview of key concepts in linear programming (LP), nonlinear programming (NLP), and multi-objective optimization, followed by a detailed description of the relevant solution methods. It then summarizes the fundamental terms and principles of mechanics that are essential for formulating the physical constraints in the addressed engineering problems. The text is clear and well-structured, making the topic accessible even to readers without an engineering background. These theoretical foundations are subsequently applied in the practical part of the thesis. It includes four case studies, resulting in one LP problem and three NLP problems, one of which is multi-objective. I appreciate that the theoretical part of the thesis includes all the essential knowledge required for formulating the mathematical models of the addressed problems, making it easier for the reader to follow each step of the modelling process. The mathematical models are then implemented in Python and solved using the methods described in the thesis. MATLAB is used to visualize the graphical solutions for selected problems. In this type of work, the ability to adequately assess the obtained numerical results is of particular importance. The author has succeeded in this aspect as well, notably by presenting graphical solutions for selected problems and verifying the results using optimality conditions. These elements enhance the credibility of the presented solutions. From a formal perspective, it is worth highlighting the high-quality typesetting of the thesis using the LaTeX environment, with minimal typographical errors. The student worked very independently and responded promptly and effectively to feedback provided during consultations. I appreciate his initiative in applying an evolutionary algorithm to solve the multi-objective problem and to obtain the Pareto front. The student has satisfactorily met all the requirements outlined in the assignment. Therefore, I recommend it for defense and award it the grade 'A'.

Posudek oponenta

Popela, Pavel

The author of the thesis processed the given application optimization topic in the original way. The examples selected by the author, the models built, and the methods used are considered to be appropriately chosen. The author thematically follows the predecessors, his modifications and implementations are original. The percentage of similarities as determined by Theses is not pertinent, as it predominantly refers to the previous iteration of the author's work that has been uploaded. It is evident that the requirements and objectives of the assignment were met at a remarkably high level. The content is well balanced. The process and scope of the solution, including the 60 pages with appendices and 6 subdivided chapters, is appropriate for a thesis. The organization of the thesis is logical and gradual. The Python codes presented in the appendices, along with the software introduction in Chapter 4, could be included in a ZIP file to facilitate the examination of the calculations. A motivating and clear introduction can be found in Chapter 1. The elements of optimization models are clearly described in Chapter 2. The author initially prefers verbal explanations instead of mathematical descriptions, but this is not distracting. The more parsimonious mathematical description is precise and readable. The optimality conditions are presented in a concise manner. The description of the algorithms is commendable for its clarity and directness. The author has studied the selected DSM, SQP, SLSQP, and MOO algorithms beyond the scope of his courses of study. The basic mechanics knowledge that the author has further applied is again presented compactly and clearly in Chapter 3. The results of the calculations presented in Chapter 5 were primarily expressed numerically. They deserved more comments as in Problem 4. The usefulness of the thesis is mainly in teaching applied optimization. Graphic design is clear, colour elements are subtly chosen. Formal requirements are met at an appropriate level. Only the use of equals signs in the description of model elements and the not entirely uniform punctuation are sometimes distracting.  Citations are mostly in the introduction of paragraphs. The incorporation of additional continuous citations would be a welcome development. The ZIP attachments allow easy repetition of the visualization. It is my recommendation that the thesis in question be defended. Having evaluated my own experience and considered all relevant contexts, I have concluded that the thesis merits a rating of "excellent."

eVSKP id 165664