total_pattern_size

Total number of points in search pattern

Specification

  • Alias: None

  • Arguments: INTEGER

  • Default: no augmentation of basic pattern

Description

If pattern_basis is simplex, then pattern search uses a minimal positive basis simplex for the parameter space, for a total of n+1 function evaluations in the pattern. Note that the simplex pattern basis can be used for unbounded problems only. The total_pattern_size specification can be used to augment the basic coordinate and simplex patterns with additional function evaluations, and is particularly useful for parallel load balancing. For example, if some function evaluations in the pattern are dropped due to duplication or bound constraint interaction, then the total_pattern_size specification instructs the algorithm to generate new offsets to bring the total number of evaluations up to this consistent total.