Overview of Methods for Multi-Level and/or Multi-Disciplinary Optimization

Multi-level optimization and multi-disciplinary optimization are areas of research that are concerned with developing efficient analysis and optimization techniques for complex systems that are made up of coupled elements (components). Within the field of multilevel optimization and multi-disciplinary optimization a large number of techniques have been developed for efficient analysis and optimization of complex systems. This paper presents an unified overview of main stream approaches that were found in the literature. Four general steps are distinguished in both multi-level optimization and multi-disciplinary optimization: physical coupling, optimization problem coupling, coordination and solution sequence. Via these four steps approaches are classified and possibilities for combining aspects of different methods are given. Finally, advantages and disadvantages of approaches applied to engineering problems are discussed and directions for further research are given