Patent ID: 6574516
Filing Date: 2003-06-03
Classification: G06F,G06N,H04W

Abstract:
A method of finding preferred values for at least one input signal corresponding to an optimum of a function of the at least one input signal, the method comprising performing a plurality of cycles to reach a convergence defined by an exit criterion, each of which cycles comprises:(a) providing an old current value of the or each input signal; (b) providing an old current value of the function; (c) selecting a test value of one or more said input signals; (d) generating said function from said selected test value or values and comparing the generated function value with the old current value of the function; and either, when the outcome of step (d) is that the generated function value is more optimal than the old current value, the steps of (e) providing a new current value of the or each input signal equal to the selected test value or values, and a new current value of the function equal to the generated function value; (f) testing whether that generated function value is more optimal than the most optimal of generated function values stored by previously performed cycles, and, if so, storing that generated function value; (g) testing for said exit criterion, and if the exit criterion is not met, returning to step (a); or, when the outcome of step (d) is that the generated function value is not more optimal than the old current value, the steps of (h) returning directly to step (a), provided that step (d) has not been followed by step (h) a predetermined number of times in succession; and otherwise (i) providing a new current value of the function equal to a generated function value stored under substep (f) of a previously performed cycle, and then returning to step (a).