Optimization • Optimization is the methodology for obtaining the best alternative from all possible ones. • Unconstrained optimization has only an objective function. – What is the route and travel speed that minimize the distance, or travel time, or number of turns from UF to your home? • Design variables are road segments and speeds. • In constrained optimization we add constraints. – No more than 3 stop lights on the way (inequality). – Drive exactly at speed limit (equality constraint).