Black-box optimisation using evolutionary algorithms.

There are numerous methods for the optimisation of a function. For some well-behaved functions this can be done analytically, but in fields like robotics we are not often dealing with well-behaved functions. In this short lecture, we will look at black-box optimisation, in which the gradient of the function is not known, and solve this using two different methods: the simplex method and an evolutionary algorithm. 

By Roy de Kleijn

First time programming in Python

In this trial lecture you will program in Python for the first time. You will receive a short lecture in which the basics of Python are explained and a number of small puzzles are explained to you. We will then put this knowledge into practice in the computer room. You can learn programming by practicing a lot. If you get through this lecture well, you will even be able to continue practicing this at home.