Setting the Min and Max Focus

For the SNLP, SMINLP and Genetic Algorithm optimizers, the min focus and max focus criteria allow you to specify a sub-range of parameter values where the optimizer should look when performing the optimization. This focus box is where you suspect the optimal solution will be, so it is a hint for the optimizer.

• The domain limits the search. The domain = physical limits.
• The focus box does not limit the search. Rather, the Focus box = an initial guess of optimum search domain. The starting point is the center of the focus box, but the search does extend beyond the box.
• This focus must be inside the domain limits. Consequently, it has to be equal or smaller size. An error message is generated if you specify a focus outside the domain.
• The focus box must be at least one hundredth of the domain size. Otherwise, an error message is sent.