Global optimization to prescribed accuracy (Q2277770)

The author presents his view on the role of interval arithmetic and on the use of multiple precision in the field of global optimization. After an introductory section on order relations and on interval arithmetic, round-off errors are discussed in connection with fixed-precision floating-point arithmetic. Results obtained in this arithmetic are compared with those using interval tools combined with an outward rounding. The role of computing the ranges of functions and of computing with sets is emphasized. A central section addresses the problem of formulating an appropriate stopping criterion. It is illustrated by examples using the interval Newton method. Remarks on user-controlled arbitrary precision interval arithmetic are added where this precision can be varied during the computation, if necessary. The paper ends with some essentials of interval methods for global optimization and with some directions for future research.