An Alternative Method for a Classical Problem in the Calculus of Variations

Abstract

A numerical technique for determining the solution of the brachistochrone problem is presented. The brachistochrone problem is first formulated as a non-linear optimal control problem. Using Chebyshev nodes, we construct the Mth degree polynomial interpolation to approximate the state and the control variables. Application of this method results in the transformation of differential and integral expressions into some non-linear algebraic equations to which Newton-type methods can be applied. Simulation studies demonstrate computational advantages relative to existing methods in the literature.