Black-Box Optimization

An optimization method that tunes inputs to a system whose internal model is unknown or too costly to differentiate, sampling outputs and searching with derivative-free algorithms (Bayesian optimization, genetic algorithms, Nelder-Mead). In ship-performance work it tunes trim, speed, and routing against measured fuel response when no analytic speed-power model is available. It names a technique, not a maritime product or standard; ground it concretely as the search method behind data-driven trim and voyage tuning. No instrument defines it.