Analysis of Simulated Annealing Type Algorithms.
Abstract
THE ANNEALING ALGORITHM IS A POPULAR Monte-Carlo algorithm for combinatorial optimization. The annealing algorithm consists of simulating a nonstationary finite state Markov chain whose state space is the domain of the cost function, called energy, to be minimized. The degree of randomization in the annealing algorithm is controlled by a parameter, called temperature, which is slowly decreased to zero. The convergence in probability and the rate of convergence of the annealing chain for the special case of an energy function with two local minima is analyzed. The sample path properties of annealing chains (with arbitrary energy functions) are examined. A modification of the annealing algorithm which makes noisy measurements of the energy function is given. The annealing algorithm is extended for optimization on general spaces.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA189382
Entities
People
- Sanjoy K. Mitter
- Saul B. Gelfand
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology