D(C)-optimization and robust global optimization

For solving global optimization problems with nonconvex feasible sets existing methodscomputeanapproximateoptimalsolutionwhichisnotguaranteedtobeclose,within a given tolerance, to the actual optimal solution, nor even to be feasible. To overcome these limitations, a robust solution approach is proposed that can be applied to a wide class of problems called D(C)-optimization problems. DC optimization and monotonic optimization are particular cases of D(C)-optimization, so this class includes virtually every nonconvex global optimization problem of interest. The approach is a refinement and extension of an earlier version proposed for dc and monotonic optimization.