University of Florida

Vehicle Dynamics and Optimization Laboratory


Welcome to the Vehicle Dynamics and Optimization Laboratory at
The University of Florida

Welcome to the Vehicle Dynamics and Optimization Laboratory (VDOL) at the University of Florida! The research areas of VDOL are as follows:

  • Novel Computational Methods for Solving Optimal Control Problems
  • Supporting Computational Methods Including Methods for Nonlinear Optimization and Automatic Differentiation
  • Applications of Newly Developed Methods to Space, Air, Ground, and Underwater Vehicles
  • Development of Advanced Reusable Open-Source Mathematical Software for Optimal Control, Optimization, and Automatic Differentiation

Vision Statement: The vision of the Vehicle Dynamics and Optimization Laboratory (VDOL) is to be the world leader in the innovation of advanced methods for the numerical solution of optimal control problems with applications to mission planning, guidance, and control of next-generation vehicle systems. VDOL currently conducts research in a variety of areas related to optimal control including pseudospectral methods, nonlinear optimization, space and atmospheric flight mission planning, guidance, and nonlinear control. The innovative research of VDOL has led to the discovery of novel global pseudospectral methods for optimal control including the two novel Gauss and Radau pseudospectral methods (see the Publications page of this website). In addition, these novel contributions have led to the first open-source reusable and extendable MATLAB pseudospectral optimal control software GPOPS. The methodologies that have been developed in VDOL are currently being used as the basis for exploring next-generation hp-adaptive approaches that take advantage of the rapid convergence rates of pseudospectral methods while enabling rapid but highly accurate solutions of complex optimal control problems. We are also developing the supporting infrastructure for pseudospectral methods through innovative research in nonlinear programming problem (NLP) solvers and automatic differentiation. We are always seeking talented individuals to join VDOL. If you have interest in these areas, please continue to explore other areas of this website further for details.