OptLib is a library of optimization routines that I've developed, mostly using stochastic methods.
Options in OptLib allow for minimization of a function of n real values using either genetic algorithm, simulated annealing, Powell's method, or a Monte-Carlo search using Powell's method.
Defaults are in place so that for most cases, implementation consists of only a few lines of code.
The validation tests for each are all currently written into an educational model on optimization created for the Blue Water's project ( http://www.shodor.org/petascale/materials/modules/ -- listed under in development) which is undergoing review, and further GA validation tests are being worked into another paper in preparation for astrophysics applications. As soon as I have authoritative and reviewed references for the validation, I'll list it here as the preferred reference for anyone wanting to use this for academic purposes.... read more