The Integration of Synthesis and Optimization for Conceptual Designs of Energy Systems

Abstract

The evolutionary process of system synthesis and the mathematical process of system optimization are integrated in one do-it-yourself software. A large number of flowsheet arrangements can be conveniently evaluated and optimized. The interactions among dissipations and dissipators can be monitored and analyzed to establish leading indicators to optimal configuration. The software is briefly described. An example problem demonstrates the integration of synthesis and optimization. The distribution of dissipations of the considered solutions to the problem are discussed.