AERE/EE/ME574: Course Info

Spring Semester 2019

Lectures

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays 2:10pm-3:25pm in 1252 Howe.

  • The 2019 Spring semester is from 01/14/2019 to 05/10/2019.

Learning Outcomes

  • Basics of nonlinear programming (nonlinear optimization)

  • Fundamentals of optimal control theory

  • Applications of optimal control in engineering problems

  • Fundamentals of optimal estimation theory

  • Introduction to stochastic optimal control

  • Introduction to numerical methods and algorithms for solving optimal control problems

Textbooks

  • Ping Lu, “Optimal Control Lecture Notes”, Iowa State University, 2016

  • Robert Stengel, “Optimal Control and Estimation”, Dover Publications, 1986

References

  • Donald E. Kirk, Optimal Control Theory: An Introduction, Dover Publications, 2004

  • Bryson, A. E. and Ho, Y. C., Applied Optimal Control: Optimization, Estimation, and Control, Hemisphere Press, New York, 1975

  • El Ghaoui, L, Optimization Models and Applications, LiveBook Labs

Mathematic Tools

Calculus; linear algebra; ordinary differential equations; calculus of variations; probability and statistics; numerical analysis.

Programming Tools

Programming ability in MATLAB, C/C, FORTRAN, Python, or any other programming languages for numerical computation.

Homework Assignments

  • Analytical: analysis, derivations, development

  • Numerical: computer solutions and simulations

Discussion

Class discussions are held on Canvas.

Grading

Homework: 40%

  • 5% for 8 selected assignments (student chooses to drop 2)

In-Class Midterms: 30%

  • 15% Midterm 1

  • 15% Midterm 2

Take-Home Final Exam: 30%

Grades are posted on Canvas.

Late Policy

The Late Policy is that there are No Late days, so please plan ahead under uncertainty.

Exams

Dates

  • Midterm 1 (in class) in Week 6

  • Midterm 2 (in class) in Week 9

  • Take-home Exam (at home) due on May 2 11:59PM

Notes
Students are allowed to bring only 1 double sided page (letter size) of typed or handwritten notes to the midterms.

Students with Disabilities

Students with disabilities: “Students are encouraged to schedule their examinations with accommodations to be taken with their instructor or TA, when possible. However, Professors/Instructors can work with our staff at the Exam Accommodation Center (EAC) located in the Hixson-Lied Student Success Center by completing the “Exam Accommodation Referral” form. If you have further questions you can call 515-294-7220. Exam Accommodations Center hours are 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday. Please note: One week advance notice is needed to coordinate exams at the EAC.” More information may be found here.