ALGORITHM AND FLOWCHART: TWIN BROTHERS AS TOOLS FOR OPTIMIZATION

Abstract

A step-by-step procedure structured in achieving a defined objective or objectives within a specific time frame is known as an algorithm. Two or more of such steps may repeat (looping) itself once or more in order to achieve the set objective or objectives. Flowcharts are schematic representations of algorithms. Optimization is the scientific method of getting the best considered suitable alternative out of several possible alternatives. Minimization of efforts or costs or maximization of benefits or profits is the central goal of optimization. Algorithm and flowchart can be viewed as tools for optimization. Both can be used to predict the performances of parameters within one or more objective functions when subjected to one or more possible constraints. Minimization of harmonics in a power distribution network through the use of five different filters is used to illustrate the beauty of algorithm and flowchart in an optimization problem in this work. An algorithm is formulated and a flowchart developed. A template that can be adopted by researchers studying the effects of harmonics and how to mitigate such is finally developed.