Visualização do espaço de solução: uma análise exploratória em problemas de otimização

Abstract

Complex real-world optimization problems often involve numerous variables, multiobjective functions, and conflicting constraints, and may even depend on subjective aspects. In this context, human-computer interaction (HCI) has been an alternative employed for solving such problems. This combination of human capabilities and algorithms is frequently utilized in decision support systems (DSS), where users can interact to improve the resulting solution. A common feature of interactive optimization processes is the use of Information Visualization tools to assist users in decision-making. In the context of optimization problems, visualizing the solution space is crucial for understanding the difficulty of solving a problem, the effectiveness of existing algorithms in exploring the space, and the user’s proximity to an optimal solution. From this perspective, the objective of this work is to systematize knowledge regarding solution space visualization and, based on this analysis, propose an interactive optimization framework that demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach in problem-solving.To achieve this objective, a systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted on the visualization of solution spaces in optimization problems. The articles identified in this review served as input for developing a tool that enables the interactive exploration of scientific literature on the subject. Additionally, a taxonomy was developed to classify interactive actions within the solution space, and a framework for interactive optimization based on its visualization was proposed. As a proof of concept, an interactive system based on an adaptation of this framework was implemented and applied in a case study on the seismic inversion problem, demonstrating the feasibility of the approach.The research provides contributions on multiple fronts, demonstrating that solution space visualization enhances problem understanding and aids in decision-making, thereby guiding the user through the optimization process.