Analog circuits for solving quadratic programming problems

Abstract

This work focuses on creating an analog circuit using CMOS technology to aid in solving quadratic programming problems (QPP). Circuits using op-amps and operational transconductance amplifiers (OTA) to solve QPPs were also investigated. Quadratic programming is type of convex optimization found in the field of control and it entails minimizing a quadratic function subject to constraints. The circuit will ultimately be for control related applications due to the presence of QPPs in this field.

The aim of the research is to design multiple circuits capable of performing some mathematical operation such as addition, integration, or vector-matrix multiplication. Particular attention is paid to using CMOS transistors to realize these circuits given their potential for a VLSI implementation. Specific nodes within the circuit converge towards an equilibrium voltage in turn providing the values of t he optimal vector of optimization variables t hat minimizes the quadratic program.