The Efficiency of Discrete Optimization Algorithm Portfolios

Introduction. Solving large-scale discrete optimization problems requires the processing of large-scale data in a reasonable time. Efficient solving is only possible by using multiprocessor computer systems. However, it is a daunting challenge to adapt existing optimization algorithms to get all the benefits of these parallel computing systems. The available computational resources are ineffective without efficient and scalable parallel methods. In this connection, the algorithm unions (portfolios and teams) play a crucial role in the parallel processing of discrete optimization problems. The purpose. The purpose of this paper is to research the efficiency of the algorithm portfolios by solving the weighted max-cut problem. The research is carried out in two stages using stochastic local search algorithms. Results. In this paper, we investigate homogeneous and non-homogeneous algorithm portfolios. We developed the homogeneous portfolios of two stochastic local optimization algorithms for the weighted max-cut problem, which has numerous applications. The results confirm the advantages of the proposed methods. Conclusions. Algorithm portfolios could be used to solve well-known discrete optimization problems of unprecedented scale and significantly improve their solving time. Further, we propose using communication between algorithms, namely teams and portfolios of algorithm teams. The algorithms in a team communicate with each other to boost overall performance. It is supposed that algorithm communication allows enhancing the best features of the developed algorithms and would improve the computational times and solution quality. The underlying algorithms should be able to utilize relevant data that is being communicated effectively to achieve any computational benefit from communication. Keywords: Discrete optimization, algorithm portfolios, computational experiment.

Chapter 24. Maximum Satisfiabiliy

Maximum satisfiability (MaxSAT) is an optimization version of SAT that is solved by finding an optimal truth assignment instead of just a satisfying one. In MaxSAT the objective function to be optimized is specified by a set of weighted soft clauses: the objective value of a truth assignment is the sum of the weights of the soft clauses it satisfies. In addition, the MaxSAT problem can have hard clauses that the truth assignment must satisfy. Many optimization problems can be naturally encoded into MaxSAT and this, along with significant performance improvements in MaxSAT solvers, has led to MaxSAT being used in a number of different application areas. This chapter provides a detailed overview of the approaches to MaxSAT solving that have in recent years been most successful in solving real-world optimization problems. Further recent developments in MaxSAT research are also overviewed, including encodings, applications, preprocessing, incomplete solving, algorithm portfolios, partitioning-based solving, and parallel solving.

SMTS: Distributed, Visualized Constraint Solving

The inherent complexity of parallel computing makes development, resource monitor- ing, and debugging for parallel constraint-solving-based applications difficult. This paper presents SMTS, a framework for parallelizing sequential constraint solving algorithms and running them in distributed computing environments. The design (i) is based on a gen- eral parallelization technique that supports recursively combining algorithm portfolios and divide-and-conquer with the exchange of learned information, (ii) provides monitoring by visually inspecting the parallel execution steps, and (iii) supports interactive guidance of the algorithm through a web interface. We report positive experiences on instantiating the framework for one SMT solver and one IC3 solver, debugging parallel executions, and visualizing solving, structure, and learned clauses of SMT instances.