Multi-cut stochastic approximation methods for solving stochastic convex composite optimization

The development of a multi-cut stochastic approximation (SA) method for solving stochastic convex composite optimization (SCCO) problems has remained an open challenge. The difficulty arises from the fact that the stochastic multi-cut model, constructed as the pointwise maximum of individual stochastic linearizations, provides a biased estimate of the objective function, with the error being uncontrollable. … Read more

Convergence of Mean-Field Langevin Stochastic Descent-Ascent for Distributional Minimax Optimization

We study convergence properties of the discrete-time Mean-Field Langevin Stochastic Descent-Ascent (MFL-SDA) algorithm for solving distributional minimax optimization. These problems arise in various applications, such as zero-sum games, generative adversarial networks and distributionally robust learning. Despite the significance of MFL-SDA in these contexts, the discrete-time convergence rate remains underexplored. To address this gap, we establish … Read more

An Adaptive Stochastic Dual Progressive Hedging Algorithm for Stochastic Programming

The Progressive Hedging (PH) algorithm is one of the cornerstones in large-scale stochastic programming. However, its traditional development requires that all scenario subproblems are solved per iteration, and a probability distribution with finitely many outcomes. This paper introduces a stochastic dual PH algorithm (SDPH) to overcome these challenges. We introduce an adaptive sampling process and … Read more

A Decision Diagram Approach for the Parallel Machine Scheduling Problem with Chance Constraints

The Chance-Constrained Parallel Machine Scheduling Problem (CC-PMSP) assigns jobs with uncertain processing times to machines, ensuring that each machine’s availability constraints are met with a certain probability. We present a decomposition approach where the master problem assigns jobs to machines, and the subproblems schedule the jobs on each machine while verifying the solution’s feasibility under … Read more

A Survey on the Applications of Stochastic Dual Dynamic Programming and its Variants

Stochastic Dual Dynamic Programming (SDDP) is widely recognized as the predominant methodology for solving large-scale multistage stochastic linear programming (MSLP) problems. This paper aims to contribute to the extant literature by conducting a comprehensive survey of the literature on SDDP within the realm of practical applications. We systematically identify and analyze the various domains where … Read more

IPAS: An Adaptive Sample Size Method for Weighted Finite Sum Problems with Linear Equality Constraints

Optimization problems with the objective function in the form of weighted sum and linear equality constraints are considered. Given that the number of local cost functions can be large as well as the number of constraints, a stochastic optimization method is proposed. The method belongs to the class of variable sample size first order methods, … Read more

An interactive optimization framework for incorporating a broader range of human feedback into stochastic multi-objective mixed integer linear programs

Interactive optimization leverages the strengths of optimization frameworks alongside the expertise of human users. Prior research in this area tends to either ask human users for the same type of information, or when varying information is requested, users must manually modify the optimization model directly. These limitations restrict the incorporation of wider human knowledge into … Read more

Globally Converging Algorithm for Multistage Stochastic Mixed-Integer Programs via Enhanced Lagrangian Cuts

This paper proposes a globally converging cutting-plane algorithm for solving multistage stochastic mixed-integer programs with general mixed-integer state variables. We demonstrate the generation process of Lagrangian cuts and show that Lagrangian cuts capture the convex envelope of value functions on a restricted region. To approximate nonconvex value functions to exactness, we propose to iteratively add … Read more

Climate-Resilient Nodal Power System Expansion Planning for a Realistic California Test Case

Climate change is increasingly impacting power system operations, not only through more frequent extreme weather events but also through shifts in routine weather patterns. Factors such as increased temperatures, droughts, changing wind patterns, and solar irradiance shifts can impact both power system production and transmission and electric load. The current power system was not designed … Read more

Risk-aware Logic-based Benders Decomposition for a Location-Allocation-Pricing Problem with Stochastic Price-Sensitive Demands

We consider a capacitated location-allocation-pricing problem in a single-commodity supply chain with stochastic price-sensitive demands, where the location, allocation and pricing decisions are made simultaneously. Under a general risk measure representing an arbitrary risk tolerance policy, the problem is modeled as a two-stage stochastic mixed-integer program with a translation-invariant monotone risk measure. To solve the … Read more