Abstract
A general process of designing new systems or improving existing systems is explained in this chapter. Distinction is made between engineering analysis and engineering design activities. The idea of designing optimum systems is introduced. Differences between the conventional design process and the optimum design process are explained, and differences between the optimum design and optimal control of systems are delineated. The basic terminology and notation used throughout the book are presented and explained. The notations for sets and points are explained. The idea of a constraint and the notation used to represent it are presented. The use of superscripts and subscripts and the summation notation are explained. A function of n variables is defined, and notation for vector functions is presented. First and second partial derivatives of a function of several variables are defined. To facilitate the use of a consistent set of units for optimization problems, a conversion table between the US standard units and the International System of units (SI units) is included.
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