Book excerpt: Introduction to Optimum Design, Third Edition describes an organized approach to engineering design optimization in a rigorous yet simplified manner. It illustrates various concepts and procedures with simple examples and demonstrates their applicability to engineering design problems. Formulation of a design problem as an optimization problem is emphasized and illustrated throughout the text. Excel and MATLAB® are featured as learning and teaching aids. - Basic concepts of optimality conditions and numerical methods are described with simple and practical examples, making the material highly teachable and learnable - Includes applications of optimization methods for structural, mechanical, aerospace, and industrial engineering problems - Introduction to MATLAB Optimization Toolbox - Practical design examples introduce students to the use of optimization methods early in the book - New example problems throughout the text are enhanced with detailed illustrations - Optimum design with Excel Solver has been expanded into a full chapter - New chapter on several advanced optimum design topics serves the needs of instructors who teach more advanced courses