CONOPT

CONOPT is a software package designed for large-scale nonlinear optimization. It is an advanced solver that can handle a wide range of nonlinear optimization problems, including those with nonlinear constraints and objectives. The software is known for its robustness and efficiency in solving complex optimization problems.

Developed by ARKI Consulting and Development A/S, CONOPT has been integrated into several optimization modeling environments, such as GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System) and AMPL (A Mathematical Programming Language). This integration allows users to leverage the powerful optimization capabilities of CONOPT within these modeling frameworks.

The solver employs a gradient-based optimization algorithm, specifically a sequential quadratic programming (SQP) method. This approach involves approximating the nonlinear problem with a quadratic programming subproblem at each iteration, which is then solved to generate a search direction. The solution process continues until convergence criteria are met, typically when the changes in the objective function and variables become negligible.

CONOPT is particularly well-suited for problems involving smooth nonlinear functions, where derivatives can be computed accurately. It supports both local and global optimization, although its primary strength lies in finding local optima. The software also offers features for handling sparse matrices, which enhances its performance on large-scale problems.

In addition to its use in academic research, CONOPT is widely applied in industrial and commercial settings for tasks such as process optimization, resource allocation, and financial modeling. Its versatility and reliability make it a valuable tool for practitioners and researchers in the field of operations research and optimization.